Shop E Store With the release of the iPhone 14 in 2022, Apple first introduced satellite connectivity to the iPhone. This feature allows users to communicate with emergency services outside of traditional cellular connections. iOS 18 has upgraded its functionality further, allowing users to send messages to friends and family using satellite connections.
Apple initially partnered with GlobalStar to enhance these satellite connectivity capabilities for iPhone users. now, Bloomberg Apple also reported that it is “secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile” to add StarLink satellite connections to the iPhone.
T-Mobile and SpaceX announced the partnership in 2022, and T-Mobile previously only said that Samsung phones would support Starlink Connectivity. Career opened beta registration for the program in December.
Bloomberg’s However, according to the report, T-Mobile recently began testing early versions of the Starlink service by allowing “a few iPhones.” This expansion is tied to this week’s release of iOS 18.3. However, Apple did not mention any changes to the update’s release notes.
In a message sent to selected users, T-Mobile states: This allows you to maintain connections with satellite text messages from almost anywhere. To start your coverage experience after that, please update to iOS 18.3. ” T-Mobile updated its support website this week to confirm that Starlink Satellite Service supports iPhone.
T-Mobile’s current Starlink Connectivity implementation works for text messaging, but both companies plan to expand its functionality to include future data and voice calls.
Here’s how it works: If your T-Mobile iPhone is in an area without cellular connections, the device that is part of the StarLink program will first try to pair it with the SpaceX satellite. Users can also enable texting via the GlobalStar service’s satellite menu or contact emergency services via Apple.
The initial version of StarLink is for text messaging only. However, SpaceX and T-Mobile say they plan to expand to future data connections and voice calls. This program is currently only available in the US. This is in contrast to Apple’s GlobalStar service, which works in several countries. SpaceX is about to extend Starlink to other carriers around the world.
Bloomberg Please point out another important difference between GlobalStar and Starlink satellite connections.
There is another big difference between the two services. Current Apple features require users to point their iPhones towards the sky and find satellites. On the other hand, the StarLink option is designed to work automatically, even if the phone is in the customer’s pocket.
T-Mobile says it plans to launch a StarLink connection for everyone who “someday 2025.” T-Mobile customers can sign up for beta on their carrier website.
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