For years, leaving your cell phone’s signal behind meant going off the grid. That reality is rapidly changing, and the latest evidence is on your wrist. In a significant expansion of satellite connectivity, new Apple Watch models are now capable of sending messages using Elon Musk’s vast Starlink constellation, marking a pivotal shift in how we stay connected.
This move signals a potential new chapter for Apple, which initially partnered with Globalstar to power the emergency Satellite SOS feature on its iPhones. Now, for its wearable lineup, the tech giant is tapping into the much larger and more expansive network of SpaceX’s Starlink.
From Canada to Japan: Carriers Bridge the Gap to the Cosmos
The future of connectivity is already live in two key markets. Major telecommunications providers Rogers in Canada and KDDI in Japan have officially announced that the latest Apple Watch models—including the Apple Watch Ultra 3, Watch Series 11, and the Watch SE 3—can now access Starlink for satellite messaging.
This means that every cellular-equipped Apple Watch released in 2025 can leverage this new off-grid capability through these carrier partnerships. The implementation, however, offers a glimpse into different potential business models.
North of the border, Rogers is offering its "Starlink Cellular" add-on in a beta program, and for now, it’s free for customers. The carrier promises that with this service, Apple Watch Series 11 users can send and receive messages from their wrists even in the most remote locations far beyond traditional cellular towers.
Meanwhile, in Japan, KDDI has rolled out a similar but paid service. This approach mirrors T-Mobile’s satellite texting plan for smartphones in the United States. KDDI’s service details hint at a robust feature set, noting, “In addition to sending and receiving text messages, Apple Watch can also share your location and receive emergency alert emails.” You can find the full details of KDDI's offering on their official service page: https://www.au.com/mobile/service/starlink-direct/usage/apple-watch/.
For a closer look at how this service is being activated in North America, you can explore Rogers' satellite mobility portal here: https://www.rogers.com/mobility/satellite.
What This Means for the U.S. and the Future of iPhone Connectivity
The rollout with international carriers strongly suggests an imminent announcement for the U.S. market. It is highly likely that T-Mobile will soon bring its Starlink satellite connectivity option to the Apple Watch, just as it has for compatible iPhones.
This strategic expansion indicates Apple is not resting on its laurels after pioneering consumer satellite emergency services with the iPhone 14 in 2022. The company is reportedly seeking to expand its satellite offerings beyond simple SOS messaging. The goal? Richer communication, including the ability to send photos via satellite, and opening the connectivity pipeline to third-party app developers.
This vision extends beyond the Watch. Apple Maps is also expected to join the satellite bandwagon, potentially allowing iPhone users to access navigation in areas with zero cellular coverage—a feature already demonstrated by Google Maps on T-Mobile’s Starlink-integrated service.
As reported by PCMag, this development is a major step in making satellite connectivity a mainstream feature. For a deeper technical dive into how SpaceX's cellular Starlink is making this possible, you can read their coverage here: https://www.pcmag.com/news/spacexs-cellular-starlink-now-works-on-apple-watches-in-canada-japan.
The Road to Global 5G from Space
The long-term vision is even more ambitious. With the iPhone 18 expected to support the 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) protocol, future smartphones will be able to seamlessly tether to satellite signals to fill in gaps in cellular tower coverage.
Elon Musk and SpaceX have grander plans still. Following the acquisition of Dish’s wireless spectrum, the ultimate goal is to position Starlink as a standalone global carrier, providing 5G coverage directly from space. While speeds would be slower than ground-based networks—targeting around 100 Mbps—it would eliminate dead zones entirely.
This future hinges on the successful launch of thousands of advanced "V3" Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capabilities, a process SpaceX is slated to begin in 2026. Until that massive constellation is in orbit, the limited but life-changing connectivity now available on the Apple Watch through carrier partners is a thrilling taste of what’s to come—a world where your most essential devices are truly always connected.