Apple Expands Satellite Coverage, Teams Up With Starlink For iPhone Service: Report

Three major tech players - Apple Inc., Elon Musk-owned SpaceX, and T-Mobile US Inc. - have been working secretly to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into the latest iPhone operating system, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. According to sources, cited in the report, testing has been underway to enable iPhones to connect with the satellite network operated by Musk's Space Exploration Technologies Corp. This capability was quietly introduced in the most recent software update.

Apple's Satellite Communication Service

This collaboration is unexpected, as T-Mobile had previously announced Starlink compatibility only for Samsung devices, including their Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy S24 series. This new development comes despite Apple already offering its own satellite communication service through Globalstar Inc., which enables emergency communications and text messaging in areas without cellular coverage.

T-Mobile has initiated an early access programme for the Starlink service, with a limited number of iPhone users participating in beta testing this week. Responding to this development on social media platform X, Musk indicated that current Starlink technology should support the transmission of images, audio content, and podcasts, with future updates planned to incorporate video capabilities.

Beta participants received notifications from T-Mobile announcing their inclusion in the programme and instructions to update to iOS 18.3 to access the satellite features. The update adds a new satellite connectivity option in the iPhone's cellular settings. 

When approached for comment, Apple representatives did not provide a response, as per the report, while T-Mobile stated that the initial testing phase includes certain optimised smartphones, with plans to expand compatibility to most modern devices. The beta program has also been extended to select users running Android 15. SpaceX did not immediately respond to inquiries.

Since Apple's partnership with Globalstar for satellite features began in 2022, multiple reports have speculated about potential support for additional networks. Following Apple's initial announcement, Musk had revealed promising discussions regarding Starlink connectivity with Apple.

The system operates by first attempting to establish a connection with SpaceX satellites when T-Mobile iPhones lose cellular service. Users can also access texting through either the Starlink or Globalstar satellite systems, or contact emergency services via Apple's service.

Currently, Starlink's functionality is limited to text messaging, though SpaceX and T-Mobile have outlined plans to expand into voice calls and data services. The service is currently restricted to the United States, whereas Apple's Globalstar service operates across multiple countries. SpaceX is actively pursuing partnerships with international carriers to expand Starlink's reach.

A notable distinction between the two satellite services lies in their operation: Apple's Globalstar service requires users to physically point their iPhone skyward to establish a satellite connection, while Starlink's system functions automatically, even when the device is stowed away.