Satellite SOS Functionality Now Accessible for iPhone 14 and Newer Models
Apple has quietly collaborated with Starlink and T-Mobile to enhance the satellite capabilities of its smartphones, launching this exciting feature with the rollout of iOS 18.3 prior to a full service release.
Initially introduced in 2022 alongside the iPhone 14, Apple’s SOS via Satellite relied solely on Globalstar for support. However, Elon Musk indicated promising discussions regarding integrating Starlink into Apple’s satellite services—a vision that is now taking shape two years later.
As reported by Bloomberg, users can now access Starlink services via the latest update. It’s important to note that while this functionality is available through T-Mobile’s early access beta program, a nationwide rollout won’t commence in the U.S. until late 2025.
A notification was dispatched to selected T-Mobile subscribers informing them of their entry into the Starlink beta phase. This message detailed how they could leverage iOS 18.3 to initiate usage: “You are part of the T-Mobile Starlink beta program! Enjoy satellite texting connectivity from nearly anywhere—just ensure your device is updated to iOS 18.3.”
T-Mobile’s announcement regarding this innovative program indicates that all postpaid voice customers with compatible devices can participate in this free open beta initiative, slated for early migration in 2025.
“The partnership between T-Mobile and Starlink represents a remarkable union of low-earth orbit satellites and terrestrial cellular networks,” stated Mike Katz, President of Marketing, Strategy and Products at T-Mobile. “This technology breakthrough allows our users connection even in areas previously unreachable by traditional ground-based networks,” he added confidently about enhancing communication reliability across diverse geographies.
Every model from iPhone 14 onwards carries compatibility with SOS via Satellite functionality; thus far evidence points toward Apple potentially extending similar features within future iterations like the Apple Watch Ultra Series 3.