The iPhone 13 has so far missed out on Apple’s own satellite features, such as Emergency SOS. But a new iOS update is opening the door for the products to receive satellite connectivity through mobile carriers.
On Monday, Apple released iOS 18.5, which mainly includes tweaks and security fixes. But the release notes mention a significant change for all iPhone 13 models, giving them “support for carrier-provided satellite features.”
Previously, the carrier-provided satellite connectivity was also restricted to the iPhone 14 to 16 models. But Apple has since updated its support page to add the iPhone 13.
(Apple)
The satellite connectivity can be useful if you end up in a location outside of a traditional cell network. Instead, your phone can communicate through orbiting satellites, giving you a way to receive a signal even in a cellular dead zone.
For US users, the iOS 18.5 update paves the way for iPhone 13 models to receive connectivity through T-Mobile’s cellular Starlink service with SpaceX, which is slated to launch in July. The satellite service will cost $10 per month and promises to offer SMS messages in cellular dead zones, before expanding to voice calls and data.
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In the meantime, T-Mobile has been offering customers, including those on rival carriers, free access to satellite system as part of a beta program. But for now, the so-called “T-satellite” service only supports the iPhone 14 and 16, along with certain Pixel and Samsung phones, although that could change.
The same iOS update could help AT&T and Verizon bring their own satellite services to the iPhone 13. Both carriers are working with another company called AST SpaceMobile to develop a rival next-generation satellite service to counter the cellular Starlink system. But AST’s service might not begin serving consumers until 2026.
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About Michael Kan
Senior Reporter
