Apple has partnered with SpaceX to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones in a significant technological advancement. With the release of iOS 18.3, T-Mobile subscribers possessing compatible iPhones and enrolled in the Starlink beta program can now connect directly to Starlink satellites. This collaboration aims to enhance connectivity, especially in areas lacking traditional cellular coverage.
Global Reach of Starlink
As of February 2023, Starlink’s satellite internet service is available in approximately 70 countries worldwide including most developed nations. The service has rapidly expanded, with recent launches in Chad, Mongolia, and Argentina. This growth has been further bolstered by partnerships with airlines and cruise lines, enhancing connectivity during travel.
Airlines Adopting Starlink
Several airlines have announced plans to integrate Starlink’s high-speed internet service into their fleets. United Airlines is set to enhance its in-flight Wi-Fi by incorporating SpaceX’s Starlink satellite service across its entire fleet of over 1,000 planes. Testing will begin in early 2025, with passenger flights expected to feature the service later in the year. The high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi will be free for passengers and promises to support activities such as streaming and video calls.
Valuation and Financial Outlook
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, has experienced substantial growth since its inception. In 2024, the service’s global internet traffic more than tripled, driven by rapid expansion into new countries and increased usage in aviation and maritime sectors. This surge in demand has significantly boosted Starlink’s valuation, with SpaceX, its parent company, in talks to sell shares that could value it at $350 billion, doubling its valuation from the previous year.
