JAKARTA - Apple's iPhone device is now eligible to test Starlink's direct-to-cell capabilities, which provide live network coverage from satellites. This was revealed by T-Mobile, a partner in this program.
T-Mobile and SpaceX, Elon Musk's company, are currently testing Starlink's mobile network experimentally after receiving approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in November last year.
According to the T-Mobile website, in its early stages, this trial offers "text via satellite" services, while voice and data features will be added in the future.
Previously, T-Mobile only listed several Android phones as eligible devices to test this network. However, now they have added an updated iPhone device to the iOS 18.3 software.
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Bloomberg News first reported on Tuesday January 28 that Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile have been working together secretly to add support to this network in their latest iPhone software update.
Neither Apple nor SpaceX have responded to requests for comment from the media.
In October last year, the FCC gave SpaceX and T-Mobile permission to activate the Starlink satellite with direct-to-cell capabilities to provide cellular network coverage in the North Carolina area which was badly affected by Hurricane Helene.
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