Published Jan 29th, 2025 10:52AM EST Image: Apple Inc. If you buy through a BGR link, we may earn an affiliate commission, helping support our expert product labs. Apparently, Apple, T-Mobile, and SpaceX have been working together in secret. A new report from Bloomberg says the three companies have brought Starlink’s satellite service to iPhones. So far, testing is very limited, but the feature began rolling out with the release of iOS 18.3 on Monday. This unannounced collaboration is a significant step in expanding satellite connectivity for smartphone users. While Apple has already offered emergency satellite messaging through its partnership with Globalstar, integrating SpaceX’s Starlink network marks a major accessibility shift. Unlike the Globalstar system, which requires users to manually point their iPhone toward the sky to establish a satellite connection (as seen in the featured image above), Starlink’s system is designed to work automatically—even when the phone is in a pocket or bag. This seamless functionality should make off-the-grid communication more accessible. Only a small number of customers are included in the beta test, and T-Mobile has been quietly notifying select users that they now have access to Starlink’s satellite texting service. Those enrolled in the program received a message saying it was now available. iPhone users have gained a new toggle in their cellular settings to manage the satellite connection. Tech. Entertainment. Science. Your inbox. Sign up for the most interesting tech & entertainment news out there. Email: