Apple has been “secretly working” with SpaceX and the result is that the latest iOS software update means iPhones can access Starlink.

Apple Inc. has been secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile US Inc. to add support for the Starlink network in its latest iPhone software, providing an alternative to the company’s in-house satellite-communication service.

Bloomberg News first reported on Tuesday that Apple, SpaceX and T-Mobile had been secretively working to add support for the network.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but SpaceX CEO Elon Musk seemingly confirmed the partnership on X, writing: "Medium-resolution images, music, and audio podcasts should work with the current generation Starlink direct-to-phone constellation. The next-generation constellation will support medium-resolution video."

In 2022, Apple became the first mainstream smartphone maker to add satellite connectivity to its mobile devices, debuting a new Emergency SOS via Satellite feature in the iPhone 14 lineup. Now, it’s taking its satellite features in a new — and arguably more useful — direction with support for the SpaceX Starlink network.

However, the Bloomberg report states that a select number of iPhone users have been able to enable the Starlink beta through T-Mobile. While we don't know which models will be compatible as of yet, T-Mobile told Bloomberg that the full release will support the vast majority of iPhones.

Apple secretly partners with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite support into iPhones with iOS 18.3.

Apple, T-Mobile and SpaceX are reportedly teaming up to bring Starlink to iPhone users This would add another satellite connectivity option for Apple fans It’s currently in beta testing for small numbers of T-Mobile customers Apple has offered satellite connectivity to its iPhone users for a couple years now,