The support for Starlink on iPhones comes after a previous partnership between T-Mobile and SpaceX, announced two years ago, aimed at providing mobile connectivity in areas lacking terrestrial coverage.
Until now, Apple relied exclusively on Globalstar for its satellite emergency service, which allowed iPhone users to send messages in situations without cellular coverage. In November 2024, Apple acquired a 20% stake in Globalstar through a $400 million investment agreement, consolidating its partnership.
However, with the arrival of Starlink support, T-Mobile users now have access to a new satellite connectivity option on their iPhone devices. According to some international media, the latest iOS update has introduced a toggle in mobile data settings that allows users to activate and manage the Starlink satellite connection.
Implications of the agreement and Globalstar’s decline
The news was confirmed by Elon Musk on the social media platform X, although neither Apple nor SpaceX have issued official statements regarding it.
Meanwhile, Globalstar has felt the impact of this announcement in the market, with a 11% drop in its stock, reflecting uncertainty about its relationship with Apple following this new integration of Starlink.
Despite Apple and Globalstar announcing their partnership in 2022, Musk had already mentioned at that time that Starlink and Apple were having promising discussions about a potential collaboration.
With this integration, Apple expands the options for satellite connectivity on iPhones, allowing users to stay connected in remote areas without cellular coverage. We will have to wait and see how this partnership evolves and what impact it will have on the satellite telecommunications market.
via: DCD