Apple iPhones updated to iOS 18.3 are now eligible to test Starlink’s direct-to-cell capability, which provides satellite coverage, according to T-Mobile and reported by Bloomberg.
Medium resolution images, music & audio podcasts should work with the current generation Starlink direct-to-phone constellation.
Next generation constellation will do medium resolution video. https://t.co/yfDPbkgSJH
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 29, 2025
T-Mobile and SpaceX are testing Starlink’s cell network on a trial basis. The network offers text via satellite and will soon add voice and data features. It has also reported supporting medium-resolution images and sending music and audio podcasts. According to T-Mobile’s website, this is only available for users on the Starlink Beta, which will only be available for T-Mobile for Business customers. The beta is coming soon, and there are only a few openings.
“T-Mobile Starlink currently supports sending and receiving text messages, location sharing and texting 911 emergency services while connected to Starlink’s satellites, with plans to pursue voice and data coverage next. During the beta test, the T-Mobile Starlink services will only be available while in the US. This service will not work internationally at this time,” reads T-Mobile’s Website.
It’s unclear which models will currently work with this feature. However, Apple only introduced Emergency SOS via satellite with the iPhone 14, so if your device is before that, it’s pretty unlikely you’ll be able to use Starlink services. However, T-Mobile told Bloomberg that with the full release, it would support the majority of iPhones.
Interestingly, T-Mobile’s Starlink partnership was only available for Android devices like the Galaxy S24 and the Z Fold 6.
It’s worth noting that this only works for T-Mobile customers and is unavailable in Canada, only the U.S. However, we know that SpaceX partnered with Rogers to power satellite-to-phone services in Canada. Initially, it was supposed to start rolling out in 2024, but that hasn’t happened yet. Previous reporting based on Elon Musk’s claims put the timeline for Canadian direct-to-cell service launching in 2025 or 2026, so it might not be too far off, depending on how things play out with T-Mobile.
Source: Bloomberg, T-Mobile, Via: Reuters, Tom’s Guide
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