Apple's recent iOS 18.5 Release Candidate version has expanded support for carrier-provided satellite connectivity to include the iPhone 13 lineup. This means that iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max users can now access services like T-Mobile's Starlink-powered satellite connectivity. This feature was previously available only on iPhone 14 and newer models.
While the Emergency SOS via satellite feature remains exclusive to iPhone 14 and newer devices due to specific hardware requirements, carrier-provided satellite services operate similarly to traditional cellular connections. In the U.S., T-Mobile's partnership with SpaceX's Starlink offers satellite-based internet to areas without conventional network access, with a beta program currently running until July.
Users of any carrier can register to test the service before its official launch, and even non-T-Mobile customers can purchase access. T-Mobile recently reduced the monthly price of their Starlink service for AT&T and Verizon customers, and other supported devices include Galaxy S23, Pixel 9, and newer models.
