With the new iOS update, iPhones can now connect to the internet via Starlink in regions without mobile coverage. The partnership between Apple and Elon Musk promises to revolutionize connectivity, ensuring global access to the web. Initially available to T-Mobile customers in the US, the new feature should expand to more countries and carriers.
Global connectivity has just taken a significant step forward with a new partnership between two technology giants.
Apple and Starlink, a company Elon Musk's satellite internet, have reached an agreement that promises to revolutionize internet access on mobile devices.
The new feature comes with the latest update to Apple's operating system and has already begun testing in the United States.
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With the arrival of iOS 18.3, Apple now allows iPhones to connect directly to Starlink satellites when there is no traditional network coverage.
The functionality is currently restricted to T-Mobile customers, but the technology is expected to be rolled out to other carriers and countries in the coming months.
How does the integration between Apple and Starlink work?
The connection between Apple devices and Starlink happens automatically.
When an iPhone with a T-Mobile SIM enters an area without cellular coverage, it attempts to connect directly to the Starlink satellite network.
However, this feature is still in the testing phase and is only available to users enrolled in the experimental program.
The promise is a more stable and accessible browsing experience for people living or traveling to remote locations.
This technology represents an important advance, as it can significantly reduce dependence on terrestrial telecommunications towers and offer more universal access to the internet.
What devices are supported?
Initially, only iPhone models from 14 onwards support this connection via Starlink.
However, Apple has already announced that it plans to expand this functionality to other devices, including the Apple Watch Ultra 2 by 2025.
Expanding compatibility reinforces the company's commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to an ever-increasing number of users.
This advancement could transform the way users interact with their devices, ensuring that even when traveling internationally or in isolated locations, internet access remains functional.
Furthermore, this technology could be a game changer for sectors such as tourism, maritime transport and aviation, where connectivity is essential.
Main benefits of connecting via Starlink
The inclusion of Starlink in the connectivity of Apple devices brings several advantages. Among the main ones, the following stand out:
- Connectivity in remote areas: Users will be able to access the internet in regions without conventional mobile network coverage, which can be essential for travelers, field professionals and even rescue teams.
- Access to multimedia content: Starlink already supports streaming music, podcasts and images, providing more entertainment options without relying on terrestrial networks.
- Future expansion: The service is expected to include support for video streaming soon, making the experience even more complete for users who rely on the internet for work and leisure.
- Alternative for network instabilities: In places where telecommunications infrastructure is deficient or prone to failure, connecting via Starlink can guarantee constant internet access.
- Impact on essential services: Healthcare professionals, researchers and emergency responders will be able to benefit from this reliable connection to maintain communication and access vital information.
With this innovation, Starlink can transform the way users use the internet, especially in places far from large urban centers.
Apple maintains partnership with Globalstar
Despite the collaboration with Starlink, Apple continues its partnership with Globalstar, which focuses on satellite-based emergency services.
Currently, iPhones allow sending text messages in areas without a network signal, ensuring greater security for users in critical situations.
This double investment in satellite connectivity demonstrates Apple's commitment to offering different solutions to meet the diverse needs of its consumers.
This approach also suggests that the company is increasingly betting on connectivity independent of traditional mobile networks, which could signal a major shift in the telecommunications market.
The future of satellite connectivity
Apple's initiative with Starlink represents a major step forward in the telecommunications sector.
Experts point out that the trend is for this type of connection to become increasingly common and accessible, benefiting not only individual users, but also companies and essential services in isolated regions.
Furthermore, it is expected that in the coming years, more operators and device manufacturers will adopt similar solutions, further expanding the global coverage of satellite internet.
Companies in the telephone sector are already showing interest in integrating satellite connectivity technologies to offer more robust services and eliminate exclusive dependence on cell towers.
However, challenges still need to be overcome.
The latency of the satellite connection, the cost of the service and the need for regulatory adjustments in different countries are points that will need to be resolved before this technology becomes a globally accessible reality.
With this partnership, Apple and Starlink are not only redefining mobile connectivity, but also paving the way for a future where the internet is accessible from every corner of the planet.
This is going to be really cool, how do I sign up for the trial phase?
Good morning! “Four how many”? Shouldn’t it be “Four corners”? 😂
Keyboard expert, but written Portuguese is lacking…