New and older iPhones have learned to connect to Elon Musk's satellite network

Apple smartphones, starting from iPhone 13 and updated to iOS 26, will now be able to connect to the Starlink satellite network through T-Mobile operator for a range of built-in applications. This is reported by PCMag, citing T-Mobile's Chief Technology Officer John Saw.

According to him, the connection is made through the T-Satellite service, which was officially launched in July 2025. The system is designed for use in areas with no cellular coverage, including remote and rural territories.

Previously, a similar capability appeared on Google Pixel 10, which supports third-party applications such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, and X, with video call and streaming video functions, despite limited data transfer speeds.

On Apple devices, support is currently limited to six built-in applications: "Messages," "Maps," "Weather," "Compass," "Music," and "Fitness." Third-party services, including WhatsApp and Google Maps, are not yet available.

T-Mobile noted that they continue to work on expanding the list of supported applications and are considering possibilities for further service development in collaboration with Apple and independent developers.