Telstra ’s recently launched satellite-to-mobile messaging service is now available to Apple iPhone owners on the network. The service was kicked off earlier in the week but was limited to Samsung Galaxy S25 devices.
If you’re using an iPhone 13 through 16, you can add to the over 100,000 messages sent since the service launched. The service works in mobile blackspot areas using SpaceX’s Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellites. It’s important to note this is not a full voice and data service. It is text-only in areas without mobile coverage. Full voice functionality is anticipated to follow as the service expands.
Telstra says the offering aims to bring connectivity to remote areas outside of the terrestrial footprint. The Telstra Satellite Messaging is in most outdoor areas on mainland Australia that have a direct line of sight to the sky.
Here’s the full range of compatible iPhones.
iPhone 16 range: iPhone 16 (A3287), iPhone 16 Plus (A3290), iPhone 16 Pro (A3293), iPhone 16 Pro Max (A3296), iPhone 16e (A3409)
iPhone 15 range: iPhone 15 (A3090), iPhone 15 Plus (A3094), iPhone 15 Pro (A3102), iPhone 15 Pro Max (A3106)
iPhone 14 range: iPhone 14 (A2882), iPhone 14 Plus (A2886), iPhone 14 Pro (A2890), iPhone 14 Pro Max (A2894)
iPhone 13 range: iPhone 13 mini (A2628), iPhone 13 (A2633), iPhone 13 Pro (A2638), iPhone 13 Pro Max (A2643)
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.