iPhone iOS 18.3 Update – Hidden Feature for Select Users
Apple has yet again surprised its global fanbase with the latest iOS 18.3 update. Some iPhone users are in for an intriguing experience with a secretive feature that will stealthily making its way to select devices. This update is poised to add a sprinkle of excitement when it becomes available.
What’s New in iOS 18.3?
First things first, let’s set the stage with what’s generally new with iOS 18.3. Like every major update, Apple has introduced bug fixes, performance improvements, and security enhancements. However, this spotlight is on a subtle tweak that only a handful of users are privy to.
The Mystery of the Hidden Feature
As reported by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, Apple has been working with SpaceX and T-Mobile US to bring support for the Starlink network in iOS 18.3, and customers can test it right now.
T-Mobile opened beta registration for Starlink in December but it was limited to Samsung phones, including the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and S24 phones with no mention of the iPhone. However, it did promise that Starlink would “support the vast majority of modern smartphones.”
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What Is Available?
There are some caveats. At the start, the service only supports texting via satellite and is limited to the United States. T-Mobile also says users “will not need to hold their phone up to search for a signal,” a clear reference to Apple’s existing Emergency SOS via satellite feature that requires a clear view of the sky and horizon. However, Apple’s service also allows emergency calls as well as texting friends and family when outside normal coverage.
That feature was introduced with the iPhone 14 and was supposed to be free for two years after activation of the iPhone. However, Apple hasn’t announced any plans to charge for the service or disable it on phones after two years have elapsed.
Mike Katz, President of Marketing, Strategy and Products, T-Mobile said:
T-Mobile Starlink is the first major low-earth orbit constellation in the world paired with terrestrial cellular spectrum, making the phone in your pocket work in areas of the U.S. that have never, and probably never will, have ground based coverage.
Apple’s Strategy and Purpose
So why is Apple keeping these features under wraps? The tech giant’s strategy seems to revolve around real-world testing within a controlled group before a broader release. This not only helps polish the features based on real-user feedback but also builds anticipation. It’s a clever way to ensure that by the time these features are officially announced, they’re nothing short of impeccable.
Apple has always been meticulous with its product releases, and iOS 18.3 is no exception. Hidden features allow them to experiment at a smaller scale without revealing too much to the competition. Moreover, it creates a thrilling Easter egg hunt of sorts for tech aficionados and loyal users.
The excitement of the hidden feature doesn’t diminish the value of the update for those who don’t receive them. iOS 18.3 still brings navigational fluidity, faster app launches, and tweaks that enhance overall usability. For now, the sense of mystery adds an element of wonder and keeps the community buzzing about what’s next.
Stay keen, keep exploring, and relish the little surprises that come with updates. While some features are hush-hush now, Apple’s continuous evolution ensures that we all have something to look forward to with each new update. As always, keep your devices updated, stay engaged with the community, and enjoy the ride as Apple continues to break new barriers with future iOS iterations.
>> Buy the iPhone 16 Pro on Three UK
>> Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max on Three UK
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