iPhone 13 Joins the Satellite Revolution with Latest iOS Update

iPhone 13 Gains Carrier-Provided Satellite Connectivity with iOS 18.5

Apple is expanding carrier-provided satellite features to all iPhone 13 models in the upcoming iOS 18.5 update. Previously, this functionality was available on newer iPhone models starting from the iPhone 14 generation. The feature allows users to send and receive messages via satellites when there is no cellular signal, augmenting Apple's existing Emergency SOS via Satellite service.

T-Mobile has partnered with Starlink to offer similar satellite-based messaging capabilities. The iOS 18.5 release candidate was issued on Tuesday, indicating that the full public release is imminent.

This expansion brings the iPhone 13 up to speed with newer models in terms of satellite communication, although the feature could have been added earlier. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted in August 2022 that Apple had initially worked on satellite communications for the iPhone 13 but did not proceed due to a lack of service partners.

Apple now collaborates with Globalstar for its satellite services, while SpaceX's Starlink is reportedly attempting to slow down Apple's satellite expansion efforts.