Apple has been “secretly working” with SpaceX and the result is that the latest iOS software update means iPhones can access Starlink.

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.

The latest iOS 18.3 update enables the satellite texting feature offered by T-Mobile through Starlink for select iPhone users.

Bloomberg News first reported on Tuesday that Apple, SpaceX and T-Mobile had been secretively working to add support for the network.

Starlink support appears to be a secret iOS 18.3 feature for iPhones, some of which now support satellite communication services from SpaceX — but only for users invited to join public beta testing of the service on US carrier T-Mobile. This supplements Apple’s existing satellite services supplier, Globalstar.

Elon Musk confirms Apple quietly adds Starlink to iPhones in iOS 18.3: medium res images, music, audio podcasts should work fine, next-gen will be faster.

T-Mobile opened beta registration for Starlink in December but it was limited to Samsung phones, including the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and S24 phones with no mention of the iPhone. However, it did promise that Starlink would “support the vast majority of modern smartphones.”

The iPhone 13 still has a lot to offer, and while it's getting harder to find, you can still save money if you know where to look.

The new iPhone 16 Plus is available to buy from Apple, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and many other carriers. And despite the best deals being during the pre-ordering phase, there are still some really great deals available.

The highly anticipated iOS 18.3 update has arrived, bringing a host of significant improvements and innovative features to your iPhone. This update

The Victor Planning Board met this week to address three key agenda items, approving modifications to wireless infrastructure, a commercial site plan, and a residential subdivision after public hearings were conducted.