iOS 18.3 update adds Starlink satellite connectivity support

Apple’s iOS 18.3 update, released yesterday, includes an unannounced but major feature. This update supports Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite service on T-Mobile’s US network. This new feature allows iPhone 14 and later users to send text messages and contact emergency services even in areas without cell coverage. It also enhances iPhone satellite connectivity by expanding beyond Apple’s existing emergency SOS service, which relies on Globalstar. With Starlink’s direct-to-cell integration, users can message contacts directly, making it a notable improvement for those in remote locations.

How the service works

Starlink’s satellite messaging works automatically without requiring users to align their phones with a satellite manually. When connected, the device displays a “T-Mobile SpaceX” status indicator, confirming the satellite link. This seamless integration makes communication easier compared to previous solutions that required precise positioning for a connection.

T-Mobile has been notifying users about the new capability via text messages, confirming that customers with supported iPhones running iOS 18.3 can now send messages via Starlink’s direct-to-cell service.

The new Starlink service is now in beta testing and will stay free for now. T-Mobile will set a price when it goes live in late 2025. The firm also plans to expand this service beyond text messages. In the future, this service will support data connection and voice calls over Starlink’s network.

Also, T-Mobile and SpaceX want to expand this tool beyond the US. They hope to let users chat in more places, even where there are no phone towers. This could help when folks travel far from big towns.

Impact on mobile connectivity

The integration of Starlink service into iPhones with the iOS 18.3 update is a big step for users. Apple and T-Mobile now give users a way to chat past the old cell net. This makes it much more easy to stay in touch. Right now, this tool is just for texts. But in time, it may let folks chat or browse just like on a phone net. SpaceX will add more satellites for this service soon. If it works well, it could help folks stay connected and this may help many in small towns or remote lands.