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The company reportedly snuck the update into this week’s iOS 18.3 release.
Apple is reportedly partnering with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite support into iPhone software, according to Bloomberg.
The partnership would offer some T-Mobile customers an alternative to Apple’s existing satellite communication service, Globalstar, which allows you to send emergency messages and contact responders via its Emergency SOS feature when off the grid.
Starlink, the world’s largest low Earth orbit satellite constellation, provides broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, video calls and more, without the need for cellular service. Starlink was previously only an option for select Samsung phones.
The report states the latest iOS 18.3 update, released on Monday, includes support for the service. While the update introduced AI features and bug fixes, it did not mention Starlink compatibility.
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.”
The move signals a big step toward broader satellite-based connectivity to help provide more reliable emergency communication when in a cellular dead zone. It comes as players like SpaceX, Amazon’s Project Kuiper and other providers compete for dominance in the field.
For now, Bloomberg said the service is only available in the US, whereas Globalstar operates in multiple countries.
With Starlink, iPhone users will no longer need to point their devices toward the sky to establish a connection. Instead, the service is expected to work even when the phone is in a pocket, according to the report.
Apple first introduced satellite connectivity in 2022, and at the time, Musk hinted at a potential collaboration, tweeting that SpaceX had “some promising conversations with Apple about Starlink connectivity.”
According to Bloomberg, T-Mobile said in a message to beta testers: “You can now stay connected with texting via satellite from virtually anywhere.”