Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell Coverage in Beta Now Accessible to Select Apple iPhone Users

January 29, 2025 TruthUSA

T-Mobile launched beta registration for a select group of users in December.

According to T-Mobile, several Apple iPhone models can now participate in testing SpaceX-owned Starlink’s direct-to-cell function, enabling phone coverage from space.

The American aerospace manufacturer, owned by Elon Musk, alongside T-Mobile, is currently beta-testing the Starlink cellular network after receiving conditional approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in November last year.

The mobile carrier initiated beta registration for a limited number of users in December.

Initial testing covers the sending and receiving of text messages—also known as “text via satellite”—and allows for location sharing and contacting 911 emergency services while connected to Starlink’s satellites, as stated on the T-Mobile website.

During the beta testing phase, T-Mobile Starlink services will only be offered to users in the United States. Plans for voice and data features are expected to be announced at a later date, according to T-Mobile.

Currently, only Apple devices operating on iOS 18.3 or later are permitted to engage in the beta testing. Previously, T-Mobile had made the testing accessible to a limited number of Android users.

In a post on the social media platform X, Musk mentioned that medium-resolution images, music, and audio podcasts should be compatible with the existing Starlink direct-to-phone system.

Musk, who is also the owner of Tesla, stated that future enhancements will include support for medium-resolution video.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Apple and SpaceX for further statements.

SpaceX and T-Mobile announced their collaboration, titled “Coverage Above and Beyond,” in August 2022.

At that time, the two companies stated that the partnership would enable SpaceX to utilize its vast constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to mobile users across the U.S., including remote areas lacking mobile coverage.

Such regions, often termed mobile dead zones, include National Parks and mountainous regions, which have traditionally posed challenges for conventional cell towers due to land-use restrictions and geographical obstacles.

“By leveraging Starlink, SpaceX’s array of satellites in low Earth orbit, along with T-Mobile’s leading wireless network, the Un-carrier aims to provide nearly comprehensive coverage in the U.S.—even in many of the most isolated locations previously unattainable by standard cell signals,” the companies remarked in their 2022 announcement.

Though not yet prepared for widespread commercial operation, the FCC temporarily granted permission in October 2024 for SpaceX and T-Mobile to activate Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability to facilitate critical communications in areas of North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

A variety of companies are currently competing in the low-Earth orbiting satellite internet arena. Satellite communications firm AST SpaceMobile is focusing on creating a global cellular broadband network that will work with mobile devices without the need for additional hardware.

Amazon.com Inc.’s Project Kuiper is also set to offer fast and affordable broadband to communities worldwide through a network of satellites.

Apple currently permits its users to send text messages and connect with emergency services when outside the reach of cellular and Wi-Fi networks via its Globalstar satellite network.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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