Following the release of iOS 18.3, some T-Mobile subscribers with a compatible iPhone are being offered beta access to connect to Starlink satellites, reports Bloomberg.
Apple has been quietly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile to add support for Starlink to its iPhone lineup. T-Mobile’s website has published a confirmation of the new integration.
While T-Mobile announced a partnership with Starlink back in 2022, and opened up a beta program in December 2024 allowing subscribers to test Starlink, which allows users to text in areas with no cell coverage or WiFi, the beta program was limited to Samsung smartphones.
Stay connected in places never thought possible with T-Mobile Starlink – the largest satellite-to-mobile network in the world. Starlink direct-to-cell satellites complement the existing T-Mobile network by acting as cell towers in space. This allows you to stay connected even when you are outside of the range of a cell tower. So, there’s no need for new apps or interfaces. It just works.
T-Mobile Starlink is launching with text via satellite – with the plan for voice and data to be added in the future.
Be among the first to experience our beta – at no extra cost – and shape a new era in connectivity.
Now that iOS 18.3 has been released to the public, T-Mobile has invited a select number of iPhone users to take advantage of the Starlink beta.
T-Mobile customers with an iPhone 14 or newer running iOS 18.3 can apply for the program by doing the following:
Register / Sign up for T-Mobile Starlink
- Head on over to our Starlink satellite phone service registration page to sign up for our beta.
- Make sure that your device is on the latest software version.
- Apple iPhone: You will need to make sure that your device is on iOS 18.3 or newer.
- Fill out the details at the bottom of the page with the following:
- Name
- Phone Number
- Click Verify to be sent a one-time verification code.
- Enter the one-time PIN we sent to your device and click Confirm.
- Click Submit. You have now been successfully registered for T-Mobile Starlink.
While Starlink beta access is currently limited, T-Mobile has plans to expand the beta to additional subscribers. Starlink is only available in the U.S., and it is free during the carrier’s beta testing period.