Apple has been working with Starlink and T-Mobile in secret to get iPhones ready for expanded satellite connectivity, and the feature is now enabled with iOS 18.3 ahead of the full service launch.

Mobile’s list of eligible devices for beta testing Starlink direct-to-cell connections now includes iPhones. While only a few Samsung Galaxy devices were supported at first, now iPhone owners with the most recent update can reportedly connect,

With iOS 18.3, iPhone users with T-Mobile can connect to Starlink satellites. T-Mobile Starlink is in beta and requires signing up. It currently supports text messages and contacting emergency services when you don't have cell coverage.

T-Mobile iPhone users with access to the Starlink beta can now connect to Starlink satellites, thanks to iOS 18.3. Bloomberg reports that Apple worked quietly with SpaceX and T-Mobile to make this feature possible, and T-Mobile’s website confirms the new integration.

Starlink support appears to be a secret iOS 18.3 feature for iPhones, some of which now support satellite communication services from SpaceX — but only for users invited to join public beta testing of the service on US carrier T-Mobile. This supplements Apple’s existing satellite services supplier, Globalstar.

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.

The latest update Apple rolled out for the iPhone allows T-Mobile customers — a select few, for now — to be able to send text messages even in locations where they have no coverage. iOS 18.3 adds support for SpaceX and T-Mobile's direct-to-cell satellite service,