The latest iOS 18.3 update enables the satellite texting feature offered by T-Mobile through Starlink for select iPhone users.

For now, the T-Mobile direct-to-cell service via Starlink only provides basic messaging, but when more satellites are added, images and even audio streaming will be possible. Video streaming in the boondocks without carrier towers will only be possible with the next-gen Starlink cellular network constellation, though.

T-Mobile's cellular Starlink beta program was initially restricted to five Samsung phone models. But the carrier has quietly expanded it to select iPhones running iOS 18.3.

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,

It will be made available over time to iPhone users on T-Mobile who apply to test the beta service. If enabled, iPhone users can use this instead of Apple’s existing Globalstar service. It is enabled using a new toggle in cellular data to enable satellite messaging.