Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by SpaceX, is already offering internet services to the masses through its Starlink dish, which connects to satellites for internet access, bypassing the traditional internet providers. Now, the company is testing a new direct-to-cell service that will provide mobile phones connectivity via satellite.
T-Mobile in the United States has launched a beta program for the Startlink’s ground breaking development, Direct-to-Cell. This service is currently compatible with selected device. Earlier, the T-Moblie Starlink beta was tested on limited of Android phones, primarily from Samsung.
This time, T-Moblie has teamed up with Apple to expand the trial to iOS, which powers the iPhone. In December of last year, T-Mobile has launched a beta testing registration program for iPhone users interested in testing Starlink’s direct-to-cell service. Bloomberg first reported that Apple is secretly working with SpaceX to enable Starlinks satellite connectivity on iPhones.
Eligible beta program participants are receiving text message notification from T-Mobile that say “You’re in the T-Mobile Starlink beta. You can now stay connected with texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.” Selected participant will now experience the Apple Starlink beta service.
Participants will now be able to text messages via satellite. SpaceX and T-Mobile are also planning to add data and voice call capabilities to SpaceX direct-to-cell.
Apple released the latest iOS update on January 27, but the release notes for iOS 18.3 did not mention any updates regarding satellite connectivity. However, this new update equips iPhones for Starlink’s satellite connectivity program.
Apple is already offering iPhone satellite service in partnership with Globalstar, a satellite connectivity service provider, enabling iPhone users to send emergency SOS messages via satellite. This remote connectivity feature was first launched on the iPhone 14.
Elon Musk the owner of SpaceX also confirmed the T-Mobile Starlink beta via a tweet on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Medium resolution images, music & audio podcasts should work with with the current generation Starlink direct-to-phone constellation. Next generation constellation will do medium resolution video.”
What is Direct-to-Cell?
Direct-to-Cell is a groundbreaking telecommunication advancement that connects mobile phones directly to satellite, bypassing the traditional cellphone towers. This technology makes mobile phone networks accessible in remote areas around the globe.
Sartlink, a satellite internet provider is leading this technology. The company is partnering with mobile carriers and manufactures to bring this innovation to more people.