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SpaceX founder reveals next-gen direct to cell satellite features after Apple partnership report

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SpaceX Direct to Cell Satellite

Apple has quietly added Starlink satellite internet support to its iPhones with an iOS 18.3 software update, which has received a reaction from SpaceX founder and CEO, Elon Musk, revealing the next-gen direct to cell satellite constellation.

Direct to cell is a satellite internet technology that offers text, data, and calling services to smart devices including smartphones without any extra modifications, add, or software.

SpaceX has deployed direct to cell satellite towers in space, which work similarly to their Earth counterpart. However, these satellites provide connectivity despite the weather, which could impact the earth-bound cell towers.

In November, SpaceX deployed sufficient direct to cell satellites into orbit to start offering services for customers and emergency scenarios.

The latest report from Bloomberg suggests that Apple is already testing Starlink satellite services in iPhones with the iOS 18.3 software update. However, a final announcement on this rollout is yet to be confirmed by the iPhone maker.

SpaceX Founder

While quoting an X post about this partnership, Musk revealed some upcoming direct to cell features. He said the medium resolution images, music, and audio podcasts could work with the current generation Starlink constallation.

SpaceX Founder and CEO, Elon Musk shared next-gen Starlink Direct to Cell satellite constellation features

SpaceX Founder and CEO, Elon Musk shared next-gen Starlink Direct to Cell satellite constellation features (Credit – X)

The next-gen direct to cell satellites will enable medium-resolution video streaming. This could be a major boost for direct to cell as a whole new service for people who want to access the internet anywhere around the world.

Among the service providers, T-Mobile has partnered with SpaceX to rollout direct to cell in the US and initially, these two will provide texting, followed by data and calling services.

Mel Trivalo is a senior author at EONMSK.com, he began his early career in electronics in 2021 and turned his attention towards Space and Rocket Science. Mel likes to explore new technologies and swings baseball to run through creative thoughts.