Starlink plans to start beta testing its Direct-to-Cell service. The beta test will include its global cellular partners, including T-Mobile.

T-Mobile partnered with SpaceX last year and launched a beta program for Starlink connectivity last December. However, the company originally only offered the option on Samsung phones. Now, this has been expanded to the iPhone as well.

Starlink support appears to be a secret iOS 18.3 feature for iPhones, some of which now support satellite communication services from SpaceX — but only for users invited to join public beta testing of the service on US carrier T-Mobile. This supplements Apple’s existing satellite services supplier, Globalstar.

Following a strong Q4 and 2024, T-Mobile US highlighted how its Starlink Satellite connectivity aided the victims of California wildfires.

The latest iOS 18.3 update enables the satellite texting feature offered by T-Mobile through Starlink for select iPhone users.

Apple is working with SpaceX and US carrier T-Mobile to add support for Starlink's network in the latest iPhone software. Starlink would provide an alternative to Apple's in-house satellite communication service, Globalstar, Bloomberg reports. The two companies have started testing iPhones with SpaceX's Starlink service.

Apple collaborates with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink connectivity into iPhones, offering satellite communication in areas lacking cellula

Apple Inc. ha estado trabajando en secreto con SpaceX y T-Mobile US Inc. para añadir soporte para la red Starlink en su último software para iPhone, proporcionando una alternativa al servicio interno de comunicación por satélite de la empresa.

As we look forward to 2025, T-Mobile’s Expansion Plans are set to revolutionize the telecom landscape. With a focus on 5G growth, rural coverage improvements, and next-gen advancements, T-Mobile is positioning itself as a leader ready to meet the demands of an increasingly connected world.

According to Android Police, T-Mobile has added Google’s latest phones to its beta test of direct-to-cell satellite service powered by SpaceX’s Starlink. iPhones and a select few Samsung phones were already in the beta.

T-Mobile's Starlink beta expands to Pixel 9 series, offering satellite messaging capabilities to more users. Sign up for the beta today!