By bigbreakingwire 
Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile have teamed up to bring Starlink satellite support to iPhones, offering a new way for users to stay connected when they’re out of range of traditional cellular networks. This feature was quietly introduced with the iOS 18.3 update on January 28, 2025, but it’s still in the early stages of development.
The service is initially available to T-Mobile customers in the U.S. with compatible iPhones, starting with the iPhone 14 model and later. It allows users to send text messages via Starlink satellites, even when they’re far from cellular towers. T-Mobile plans to expand the service to include voice and data in the future.
For now, the service is in beta testing, with select users being invited to participate. These users can access satellite connectivity automatically, without needing to point their phone to the sky, which was a requirement for Apple’s previous satellite service through Globalstar. This feature is designed to work seamlessly, even when the phone is in a pocket.
T-Mobile’s beta program is currently limited, but as more users join, it’s expected that the service will extend to more devices. The company has stated that it plans to roll out the service to a wider audience sometime in 2025.
Currently, the service is available only in the U.S., but there are indications that SpaceX and T-Mobile might expand this satellite connectivity globally. This collaboration marks an important step in reducing mobile dead zones and providing a lifeline for users in remote or disaster-hit areas, improving communication during emergencies.
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