iPhones now receive satellite data with T-Mobile and Starlink
Mobile connectivity continues to evolve, and now iPhone users can benefit from a new feature that allows them to access satellite data. T-Mobile has launched its T-Satellite service that, in collaboration with Starlink, enables compatible iPhone owners to communicate even in the most remote areas where cellular signal is scarce.
T-Satellite: a connection in isolated areas
T-Mobile officially introduced its T-Satellite service in July of this year, offering users the ability to stay connected in places where traditional mobile networks do not reach. This service provides connectivity tools, including the ability to send and receive text messages via satellites, a feature that new iPhone models already incorporate. Starting this week, iPhone users will have the option to access various Apple applications via satellite connection.
Available applications for iPhone
Initially, the ability to receive satellite data for mobile applications was introduced with Google Pixel 10 devices, and T-Mobile has now extended this capability to iPhones, starting from the iPhone 13 model. However, to take advantage of this feature, it is essential that the phones have downloaded the iOS 26 operating system update, which was also released this Monday.
Through the T-Satellite service, customers can not only send text messages but also use a limited number of Apple applications that include:
- Apple Compass
- Apple Fitness
- Apple Maps
- Apple Messages
- Apple Music
- Apple Weather
It is important to note that compared to Android users, who have access to a total of 13 mobile applications through this service, iPhone users only have these six available. This group lacks popular applications like Google Maps and WhatsApp, which are available for devices running on Android.
Comparison between iPhone and Android
Android device users have enjoyed a broader experience regarding satellite connectivity. Some of the applications they can use include:
- AccuWeather
- AllTrails
- CalTopo
- Google Maps
- Google Messages
- X (formerly Twitter)
The list for iPhone is clearly more restricted, raising concerns about iPhone users' ability to fully make use of the T-Satellite service. Nevertheless, the support for Apple Messages is a highlighted aspect since WhatsApp does not have the same level of popularity in the United States, which could facilitate communication through Apple’s native application.
Future expectations
T-Mobile has assured that the capability to use satellite data in certain Apple applications is available for those iPhones operating on iOS 26. T-Mobile's CTO, John Saw, stated that there will be more updates regarding data capabilities in the near future, suggesting that both T-Mobile and Apple are in the process of optimizing their applications for T-Satellite usage.
The company also anticipates a broader rollout of satellite data functionality for other models of Android phones on October 1st. Currently, the T-Satellite option is available for a cost of $10 per month for most consumers, although those with T-Mobile’s premium plans can access this service for free.
Device compatibility and technical requirements
It is crucial for users wanting to utilize the T-Satellite service to keep their software updated. Below is a list of the device models currently compatible with this feature:
Apple Devices
Device Model Text Multimedia Messaging Data
| Apple iPhone 13 (all models) | Yes | Coming soon | Yes
| Apple iPhone 14 (all models) | Yes | Coming soon | Yes
| Apple iPhone 15 (all models) | Yes | Coming soon | Yes
| Apple iPhone 16 (all models) | Yes | Coming soon | Yes
| Apple iPhone 17 (all models) | Yes | Coming soon | Yes
Google Devices
Device Model Text Multimedia Messaging Data
| Google Pixel 9 | Yes | Yes | Coming soon
| Google Pixel 9a | Yes | No | No
Conclusion
The launch of the T-Satellite service marks a significant advancement in access to satellite connectivity for iPhone users, allowing for broader use of Apple applications in environments where cellular networks are limited. As T-Mobile continues its upgrades and expansions, it is expected that the functionality and availability of more applications will increase, further benefiting its users.
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