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.

T-Mobile is expanding its Starlink beta program. Now, some iPhone and Samsung Galaxy users can connect to SpaceX's satellites.

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 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.

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

T-Mobile continues to perform well in the U.S. telecom market, with aggressive expansion in 5G, strong earnings growth, and customer-focus. Explore more details here.

With iOS 18.3, iPhone users with T-Mobile can connect to Starlink satellites. T-Mobile Starlink is in beta and requires signing up. It currently supports text messages and contacting emergency services when you don't have cell coverage.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but SpaceX CEO Elon Musk seemingly confirmed the partnership on X, writing: "Medium-resolution images, music, and audio podcasts should work with the current generation Starlink direct-to-phone constellation. The next-generation constellation will support medium-resolution video."