Apple Inc. ha estado trabajando en secreto con SpaceX y T-Mobile US Inc. para añadir soporte para la red Starlink en su último software para iPhone, proporcionando una alternativa al servicio interno de comunicación por satélite de la empresa.

AST SpaceMobile ( ASTS -11.52%) stock crashed to Earth on Wednesday, falling 9.3% through 9:55 a.m. ET, while rival satellite company Globalstar ( GSAT -20.94%) lost a staggering 27% of its market cap.

Apple 's compatible iPhones now support Starlink's direct-to-cell capability, a service from SpaceX that provides coverage from space. The news was confirmed by T-Mobile, a partner in the project, according to Reuters.

Apple is working with SpaceX and US carrier T-Mobile to add support for Starlink's network in the latest iPhone software. Starlink would provide an alternative to Apple's in-house satellite communication service, Globalstar, Bloomberg reports. The two companies have started testing iPhones with SpaceX's Starlink service.

Apples iPhones can now test SpaceXs Starlink direct-to-cell technology, providing satellite coverage for mobile devices. T-Mobile, a key partner in the initiative, confirmed the eligibility of iPhones running iOS 18.

T-Mobile expands Starlink satellite service to iPhone users with iOS 18.3 update, enabling text messaging via satellite in remote areas.

Apple first introduced satellite connectivity features to the iPhone with the release of the iPhone 14 in 2022. The

Apple, Inc. (AAPL) is reportedly eyeing a satellite network collaboration with Elon Musk-owned SpaceX unit Starlink and telecom company T-Mobile U.S., Inc. (TMUS). Prominent Apple leaker and Bloomberg columnist Market Gurman said the companies have been testing iPhones with Starlink service in an effort to provide an alternative to Apple’s

With iOS 18.3, iPhone users with T-Mobile can connect to Starlink satellites. T-Mobile Starlink is in beta and requires signing up. It currently supports text messages and contacting emergency services when you don't have cell coverage.

Apple and SpaceX just unlocked direct Starlink connectivity for select iPhones, eliminating dead zones forever. Discover how this world-changing innovation is redefining mobile communication!