Since mid 2022rumors indicated that the Apple could integrate satellite connectivity in the iPhones. Now, this forecast is coming true with the arrival of iOS 18.3which brought support for direct connection with satellites from Starlink for customers of T-Mobile us United States.
Initial test for selected users
The news is still in the testing phase and is restricted to a group of selected users. THE T-Mobile It will send invitations to customers to participate in the Beta program, allowing them to try the new technology before the definitive launch.
Service initially limited to text messages
In this first moment, the connection via Starlink It is limited to the exchange of Text messages. However, the T-Mobile has already confirmed that it intends to expand the offer to include voice and data calls in the future, significantly expanding the connectivity of users of iphone. As announced ELON MUSKowner of Starlink, on his X profile:
Medium Resolution Images, Music & Audio Podcasts Should Work with the Current Generation Starlink Direct-To-PHone Constellation.
Next Generation Constellation Will of the Medium Resolution Video. https://t.co/yfdpbkgsjh
– Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 29, 2025
Contents supported in the connection via Starlink
Currently, the current generation of the satellite constellation of the Starlink Allows the transmission of medium resolution images, audio and podcasts. The next generation of the system promises to make it possible to Video transmission in medium qualitymaking the experience even more complete.
Apple already offered satellite connectivity
Since the launch of the iPhone 14a Apple already provides a resource of satellite connectivitybut only for emergenciesusing the network of GlobalStar. The partnership with Starlink It expands this functionality and promises to revolutionize the way brand devices connect to the world.
Starlink and T-Mobile already tested technology on other devices
THE T-Mobile signed partnership with Starlink in 2022 and since then, has tested satellite connectivity on devices such as the Galaxy S24, Z Fold6 and Z Flip6from the Samsung. With this technology, the operator plans to expand connectivity to all its customers until 2025.
Technology expansion can transform global connectivity
Although the novelty is still available in a limited way, the partnership between Apple, Starlink and T-Mobile It represents a great advance in mobile connectivity. The possibility of iPhones whether connecting directly to satellites can eliminate Zones without signalallowing communication anywhere on the planet.
Launch forecast for all users
The expectation is that the connection via Starlink gradually expanded to more users throughout 2024 and 2025. With the arrival of the second generation of satellites, voice and data transmission must become a reality for millions of users of iphone around the world.
Impact of the partnership between Apple and Starlink
The collaboration between Apple and Starlinkcompany of ELON MUSKit can be a watershed in the telecommunications sector. Satellite connectivity eliminates the need for mobile towers in remote areas, ensuring greater reach and quality of service.
The future of mobile connectivity
The integration of technology of Starlink in the devices of Apple It can lead to even more significant advances in global connectivity. In the near future, dependence on land networks can decrease, bringing more stability and efficiency to users of iphone.
Summary for those in a hurry
- THE iOS 18.3 brought support for satellite connection from the Starlink for customers of T-Mobile.
- At the moment, the functionality is in the testing phase and restricted to Text messages.
- THE T-Mobile plans to expand the service to include Voice and Data.
- THE Apple already offered satellite connection to emergencies using the GlobalStar.
- The partnership between Apple and Starlink can revolutionize global connectivity.
- The service must be made available to all users until 2025.