More satellite networks: iPhone 14 and Neuer will soon support StarLink in the US 8 comments
Picture: Apple
With iOS 18.3 Apple has not only new wallpapers and AI functions, but also support for third-party satellite networks. T-Mobile has already started a test with StarLink satellites in the United States.
No official announcement from Apple so far
So far the project has only been announced by T-Mobile for Samsung smartphones, with iOS 18.3 a test with the iPhone 14 or newer. Apple The new function, which theoretically supported all satellite networks of mobile providers, did not announce, did not announce or mention in the change change last Monday.
SpaceX founder Elon Musk has already confirmed the collaboration and also gave an outlook on the technical possibilities: the speed on Starlink should be sufficient for images, music and podcasting, but later it should also be sufficient for the moving image.
iPhone compatible with more satellite networks
Apple This potentially opens up iOS for many satellite systems that cooperate with mobile providers. Satellite confinement was initially introduced in 2022 with the iPhone 14 (Pro), then supported the celestial bodies of the GlobalStar network, in the Apple Recently with additional billions. So far, the service does not cost users and allows text messages and (emergency) calls in remote areas where there is no cell phone coverage, but visual contact with the sky.
StarLink brings internet from space – theoretically
With StarLink, T-Mobile theoretically extends the range of emergency services on the iPhone: now data transfers are also possible which are sufficient for music and pictures. This has not been possible so far, but will only be promised for the future, because the current test run with the “selected” smartphones will initially focus only on text messages. However, the full range of functions of StarLink satellites with voice calls and data connections is expected.
You are in the T-Mobile Starlink beta. Now you can stay connected with satellite texting from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing beyond coverage, please update to iOS 18.3.
T-Mobile Us via StarLink Beta in confirmation SMS
The cooperation between T-Mobile and StarLink has existed since summer 2022, but network availability is still limited in the United States. Unlike Apple’s GlobalStar partner, StarLink can only be used on smartphones in the United States.
Vodafone is also testing diligently in this country
In Germany, Vodafone proudly showed just a few days ago how a data connection between the Android smartphone and the satellite was made possible in a rural area in Scotland. In 2025 and 2026, the service in Europe is to be introduced. The iPhone now seems ready as well.
Topics: Apple
iPS iPhone Mobifunk Satellite Internet Smartphones StarLink Source: Bloomberg
Sarah tracks innovations in smartphones, evaluating their performance, design, and key features.
