Apple Inc. has been secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile US Inc. to add support for the Starlink network in its latest iPhone software, providing an alternative to the company’s in-house satellite-communication service.

In 2022, Apple became the first mainstream smartphone maker to add satellite connectivity to its mobile devices, debuting a new Emergency SOS via Satellite feature in the iPhone 14 lineup. Now, it’s taking its satellite features in a new — and arguably more useful — direction with support for the SpaceX Starlink network.

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."

Apple is finally offering support for Starlink satellite service on iPhones, but only on T-Mobile, and access is still limited.

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 Satellite Connectivity. In October 2024, SpaceX and T-Mobile secured FCC approval to connect Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capabilities. This initiative aims to

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

Apple first introduced satellite connectivity features to the iPhone with the release of the iPhone 14 in 2022. The

Apple and SpaceX just unlocked direct Starlink connectivity for select iPhones, eliminating dead zones forever. Discover how this world-changing innovation is redefining mobile communication!

Medium resolution images, music & audio podcasts should work with the current generation Starlink direct-to-phone constellation.The first users received text messages from T-Mobile