Apple’s latest update for iPhone – iOS 18.3 – enables Starlink support. Here’s what you need to know.
iOS 18.3 Update Enables Starlink Voice Support for T-Mobile iPhone Subscribers in the United States, Currently in Beta
Modern iPhones do have support for connecting to a satellite, allowing you to send text messages, share your location, and more.
You can’t use it to make calls or use data, yet.
However, with the latest iOS 18.3 update for iPhone, Apple is starting to make the biggest stride yet, according to Bloomberg.
If you’re in the United States and happen to be a T-Mobile subscriber, the latest iOS 18.3 update enables support for Starlink. Yes, the same Starlink we all know for high-speed internet via satellite.
However, before you get too excited, there are a few things you should know.
First and foremost, it is only supported on a handful of iPhones.
Secondly, you should be a T-Mobile subscriber in the United States, and Starlink support is limited to texting only.
Calling and data support are planned for the future, and there’s no telling if current iPhones will support them.
Another thing you should know is that this program is currently in beta and is being tested on a very small set of iPhone users.
Your iPhone will automatically connect to a Starlink satellite when cellular coverage is limited. You don’t have to buy extra hardware. But, but you need to download and install iOS 18.3 for this to work.
If you’re interested, you can sign up by going to this link. Again, it’s only limited to the United States, T-Mobile subscribers, and you must have a compatible iPhone.
I’m 100% convinced that Apple is working with Starlink in the background to bring data support to iPhones as soon as possible. But it needs to be seen if it can pull it off using current hardware, or if an upgraded iPhone is required.
Apple is currently working on its own modem for the iPhone, and there is a chance the company is doing this to make room for such a feature.
