A few days ago it was claimed that Apple and SpaceX had been secretly working together, but the latest update doesn’t force Starlink onto your device.

Contrary to rumors being spread on TikTok and elsewhere, iOS 18.3 doesn’t install Elon Musk’s Starlink tech on your iPhone.

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

Apple has been secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile to add support for the Starlink network in its latest iPhone software.

T-Mobile partnered with SpaceX last year and launched a beta program for Starlink connectivity last December. However, the company originally only offered the option on Samsung phones. Now, this has been expanded to the iPhone as well.

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.

The latest update Apple rolled out for the iPhone allows T-Mobile customers — a select few, for now — to be able to send text messages even in locations where they have no coverage. iOS 18.3 adds support for SpaceX and T-Mobile's direct-to-cell satellite service,

That's now been sorted out, One NZ said. Customers who have an iPhone 14 or later Apple smartphone can access the Satellite TXT service nationwide, as long as they have a clear line of sight to the skies. Some canned quotes from Joe Goddard, One NZ's experience and commercial director: