T-Mobile has announced the public beta launch of its Starlink satellite communications feature, giving users in the United States the opportunity to test the service for free until July. However, Starlink connectivity on iPhones is not seen favorably by many users, especially those who are not Elon Musk fans. There is some confusion surrounding the feature, and many users mistakenly believe that Starlink has been “installed” automatically on all iPhones. Of course, this is not true.
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What is Starlink on iPhone and how does it work?
The feature allows compatible iPhone owners to stay connected even in areas without traditional cellular coverage. It's worth noting that this isn't Starlink's internet service, but rather the technology that allows text messaging.
“T-Mobile Starlink uses specially configured satellites equipped with Direct-to-Cell technology, orbiting at an altitude of over 320 miles and traveling at over 27.000 miles per hour. They transmit cellular signals – currently only for text messages, with picture messages, data, and voice calls to be available later – to and from locations where cell towers do not have coverage (so-called dead zones).”
It is not a direct partnership between Apple and Starlink
Contrary to what is circulating on social media, Apple has not made any direct deals with Starlink. In fact, T-Mobile is using its 1900MHz frequency band (band 25) to provide this additional coverage via Starlink, and iPhones are compatible with this band. There is basically nothing special about Starlink in iOS 18.3, other than support for the latest version of T-Mobile’s network.
Additionally, users who do not wish to use this feature, there is a disable option in Settings > Cellular network > Carrier > Disable satellite.
Who can benefit from Starlink through T-Mobile?
This beta program that allows activation of the Starlink service on iPhone is available to users with the subscription plan Go5G Next (including Go5G Next 55+ subscription options), as well as for business customers who use Go5G Business NextThose who sign up during the trial period will be able to benefit from a discount of $10/month per line, which means a savings of 33% compared to the full price. However, to take advantage of this offer, registration must be made by the end of February.
Currently, Starlink connectivity on iPhone through T-Mobile is limited to sending text messages when the user is outside of T-Mobile's network coverage area. It is expected that in the future, the service could be expanded to include mobile data, but for now, Starlink is not a mobile operator, which is why this partnership with T-Mobile was necessary.
Updating to iOS 18.3 does not automatically install Starlink on iPhone
There are quite a few users who are hesitant to update to iOS 18.3 for fear that it will automatically enable Starlink on their iPhone. This is not true. If you are one of these users, you should know that it is important to keep your phone updated to benefit from the latest security improvements and bug fixes. In fact, Apple recently released an update to iOS 18.3 which solves a major security problemiPhones are capable of using Starlink as an internet provider, just like Spectrum or Xfinity, but that doesn't mean every device is connected to Starlink by default.
By introducing satellite connectivity, T-Mobile is offering users an effective solution to stay connected in critical situations, allowing for emergency calls when traditional networks are unavailable. This new option brings a significant advantage in the event of natural disasters or other unforeseen situations.
