Telstra Has Added iPhones to Its Satellite Messaging Service – But You Still Need a PLB

Telstra recently switched on an Australia-first satellite-to-mobile text service for eligible customers using a Samsung Galaxy S25, and has since added multiple iPhone devices to the service as well.

Telstra has launched a satellite-to-mobile text service delivered via SpaceX’s Starlink technology, a first in Australia. The service allows eligible customers to text in areas out of range of the 4G and 5G networks by connecting to Starlink satellites. 

The service is currently limited and only available to consumer and small business customers on Telstra’s month-to-month mobile plans with satellite messaging included. The service was at first only available on the Samsung Galaxy S25 series family, and has since been made available on all models of the iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16. Telstra is focusing on rolling the service out across more plans and devices soon.

The new technology is set to be a game-changer for increasing Australia-wide connectivity as the technology rolls out. The satellite messaging is particularly useful for those visiting rural areas, leaving mobile reception temporarily while on an adventure in wilderness areas or more rural national parks, and people who are living or working remotely. 

Voice calls via this technology are also still at least two years away, with Telstra estimating this functionality to be available in 2027. 

Other coverage providers such as TPG-Vodafone and Optus are working on a similar satellite-to-text service.

Using Satellite Messaging on an Adventure

Telstra’s satellite messaging service is currently intermittent and still undergoing improvements, so while some texts will be sent instantly, others may be slightly delayed. The service works best with a clear view of the sky and may take longer if the satellite isn’t directly overhead.

For Explorers, it’s important to note that satellite-to-mobile text messaging isn’t yet connected to emergency services, and the emergency number 000 isn’t possible to reach directly via text; instead, users must text a third party to call 000. In the case of an emergency in which a quick response time is essential, it’s vital that Explorers still carry a PLB or other emergency device. However, this technology, once rolled out more broadly, could prevent the misuse of PLB and other emergency devices, saving Explorers money and search and rescue crew time and resources. 

Read more: What Happens if I Activate My Distress Beacon? (PLB)