Recently, tech giant Apple has been exposed to be collaborating with SpaceX and telecom company T-Mobile to enable Starlink satellite communication functionality on the iOS 18.3 version for iPhone, allowing users to send text messages without mobile network. Future plans include supporting voice and data transmission, driving iPhone into the era of satellite communication.
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ToggleT-Mobile Starlink test plan lands on iPhone
According to Bloomberg, Apple is collaborating with SpaceX and U.S. telecom operator T-Mobile to support the TRON satellite network on the iPhone 18.3 version, expanding the available range of mobile networks.
It is reported that some iPhone models have received notifications to automatically join the T-Mobile TRON test plan, allowing users to send text messages through the TRON satellite in areas without mobile network, further enhancing the iPhone's satellite connectivity capabilities:
You have joined the T-Mobile TRON test plan and can now send text messages via satellite, stay connected no matter where you are. Please update to iOS 18.3 to experience broader coverage.
Previously, Apple has invested $1.5 billion in cash and equity transactions with another satellite communications company Globalstar to provide emergency SOS and text messaging functions; this collaboration with T-Mobile and SpaceX will further expand the application of iPhone in the field of satellite communications.
In addition, Apple has added a "Satellite Network Switch" in the mobile data settings of the iPhone, allowing users to manually manage this function.
How does the iPhone Starlink connectivity function work?
The report indicates that when the iPhone is in an area without mobile network signal, the device will automatically attempt to connect to the SpaceX satellite to use the TRON service:
Initially, this service only supports text messaging, but T-Mobile and SpaceX will expand it to voice calls and data transmission in the future, further broadening the application of satellite communication technology.
Currently, the iPhone can still use Globalstar to send emergency SOS messages, and users who have joined the T-Mobile test plan can also use the Starlink satellite service for more diverse communication experiences.
(SpaceX under Musk receives approval to provide direct-to-cell satellite service with Starlink)
Samsung flagship devices, Android 15 system can also use
Furthermore, although T-Mobile is primarily targeting the iPhone, it is reported that some Samsung flagship models and specific smartphones with the Android 15 version are also included in the Starlink test options, including the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy S24 series.
In a statement to Reuters, T-Mobile said:
Testing is underway for "specific models and versions of smartphones", and this service will support the vast majority of modern smartphones in the future.
Apple's collaboration with SpaceX and T-Mobile has taken a big step forward for iPhone in satellite communication technology. Not only will it allow iPhone users to maintain connectivity in extreme environments, but it will also bring satellite communication technology closer to the general consumer market.
As the TRON satellite network continues to expand, the seamless integration of smartphones and satellites may become a mainstream technology in the future.
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