Breaking News: Apple Expands Satellite Connectivity to iPhone 13 Lineup

In a move that’s sure to delight iPhone enthusiasts, Apple has announced that it’s extending support for carrier-provided satellite connectivity to the iPhone 13 lineup with the release of iOS 18.5 RC. This means that iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max users will soon be able to access satellite features offered by carriers like T-Mobile, including services like T-Mobile’s Starlink-powered satellite coverage.

What Does This Mean for iPhone Users?

For those who own an iPhone 13, this update brings a significant improvement in connectivity. With carrier-provided satellite features, you’ll be able to access the internet and make calls in areas without traditional cell service, provided you have a compatible carrier plan. This is especially useful for those who live or travel in rural areas where cell service is limited.

How Does It Work?

Carrier-provided satellite services work similarly to conventional cellular connections. They require a participating plan to work and behave more like a cellular connection. This means that you’ll need to have a compatible carrier plan and a participating carrier to access these features.

T-Mobile’s Starlink Partnership

In the United States, T-Mobile has partnered with SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite-based internet connectivity to network dead zones. The service is currently in beta until July, and any iPhone user with any carrier can register to test the service before it goes live. T-Mobile will also sell service to any iPhone user, regardless of what carrier the iPhone uses.

What’s the Difference Between Satellite Connectivity and Emergency SOS via Satellite?

It’s important to note that this update does not bring Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite to the iPhone 13 series. This feature relies on specialized hardware found only in iPhone 14 and later and functions independently of carrier networks. In contrast, carrier-provided satellite services behave more like conventional cellular connections and require a participating plan to work.

What’s Next?

With iOS 18.5 expected to launch next week, all iPhone 13 models will gain support for carrier-provided satellite features. This is a significant step forward in terms of connectivity and will undoubtedly benefit iPhone users who live or travel in areas with limited cell service.

Actionable Insights

• If you own an iPhone 13, make sure to update to iOS 18.5 RC to gain access to carrier-provided satellite features.
• Check with your carrier to see if they offer participating plans for satellite connectivity.
• Register to test T-Mobile’s Starlink service in beta before it goes live in July.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Apple’s decision to expand satellite connectivity to the iPhone 13 lineup is a significant development in the world of mobile technology. With carrier-provided satellite features, iPhone users will have greater access to the internet and communication services in areas without traditional cell service. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for satellite connectivity in the future.