Despite what you might have seen on TikTok, Apple has not simply “installed” Elon Musk’s Starlink on every iPhone.
In brief, the iPhone can utilize Starlink, similar to how it connects with any mobile service provider. However, currently, Starlink support for iPhone in the United States is restricted to a single carrier.
This is not a direct collaboration between Apple and Starlink. Instead, T-Mobile is utilizing its 1900MHz (band 25) spectrum to enhance coverage through Starlink, and the iPhone is compatible with band 25. There’s nothing particularly unique in iOS 18.3 beyond its support for T-Mobile’s latest network version. Apple has not entered into any formal partnership with Starlink.
For T-Mobile customers who would prefer not to utilize Starlink features on their iPhone, there is a method to disable this functionality.
The option can be found in Settings > Cellular > your carrier > and then turn off Satellite.
Moreover, Apple has released documentation explaining how the iPhone interacts with satellite features provided by carriers. This new information distinguishes between Apple’s own satellite network services and those provided by carriers.
Some carriers have improved their cellular networks by incorporating satellite capabilities through partnerships with satellite providers. Before venturing off the grid, ensure your iPhone can utilize these carrier-provided satellite features. Here’s what you need:
- iPhone 14, iPhone 15, or iPhone 16 (all models)
- The latest version of iOS
- A supported carrier
- Some carriers may require a compatible cellular plan
When your iPhone is utilizing a carrier-provided satellite feature, a “SAT” icon will appear in the status bar.
Carrier charges or data rates may apply. For additional information on carrier-provided satellite features and supported regions, please contact your carrier.
iPhones can also access Starlink as an internet service provider, similar to Spectrum or Xfinity. Starlink’s satellite internet can be fixed, portable, and even available during flights and cruises.
Currently, T-Mobile’s Starlink service is quite limited. It solely supports sending text messages via Starlink when outside T-Mobile’s coverage. The service is also in beta, and users must manually sign up for access via T-Mobile’s website.
Looking ahead, Starlink plans to broaden its capabilities to include mobile data for T-Mobile customers, which it already offers to direct subscribers as an ISP. However, Starlink is not a mobile phone carrier, which necessitated its collaboration with T-Mobile.
As a final note, despite what you may have come across on TikTok, it’s advisable to update to iOS 18.3 at your earliest convenience. Keeping your iPhone updated is essential for receiving the latest bug fixes and security patches. There is no valid reason to avoid upgrading to iOS 18.3 due to this Starlink connectivity option.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
