SpaceX partners with Apple to bring Starlink connectivity to iPhones

SpaceX and Apple have reached a partnership agreement to bring Starlink connectivity to iPhones. As part of the plan, Apple’s iPhones are now set to support direct-to-cell coverage through SpaceX’s Starlink network, expanding satellite connectivity options for mobile users in the U.S.

T-Mobile, a key partner in the initiative, confirmed that Apple devices are now eligible for the trial phase of Starlink’s satellite-powered cell service. The carrier and SpaceX have been testing the network after getting approval from the Federal Communications Commission in November.

The news comes two years after SpaceX partnered with T-Mobile to connect mobile phones to satellites and boost cell coverage in remote locations as part of the “SAVE LIVES” program.

According to a report from Reuters, “Apple’s iPhone devices are now eligible to test SpaceX-owned Starlink’s direct-to-cell capability that provides coverage from space, according to T-Mobile, a partner in the program.”

For now, the trial includes satellite-based text messaging, with voice and data services planned for a later rollout, according to T-Mobile’s website.

Initially, only select Android devices were listed for testing, but the latest iOS 18.3 update has extended eligibility to iPhones.

Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile had been quietly working together to integrate support for the network into Apple’s latest software update.

Apple and SpaceX have not provided comments in response to inquiries outside regular business hours.

In October, the FCC granted approval for SpaceX and T-Mobile to deploy Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology to assist with connectivity in North Carolina following damage caused by Hurricane Helene.