Starlink Brings Satellite Messaging to Apple Watch 11

Apple is quietly taking its satellite game to the next level. The company’s newest smartwatches — including the Watch Series 11, Watch SE 3, and the rugged Watch Ultra 3 — can now connect directly to SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, letting users send messages and share locations even in areas where there’s no cellular coverage.

Until now, Apple’s satellite features — like iPhone’s Emergency SOS — have primarily relied on Globalstar. But as the Cupertino giant expands its connectivity options, Starlink’s larger constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites is stepping in to help fill the gaps with wider, more reliable coverage.

The feature is currently rolling out in Canada and Japan through partnerships with Rogers Communications and Japanese telecom operator KDDI, respectively. Rogers is currently offering Starlink connectivity as a free beta add-on for Apple Watch users in Canada, while KDDI’s “Starlink Direct” plan in Japan is a paid option.

“In addition to sending and receiving text messages, Apple Watch can also share your location and receive emergency alert emails,” says KDDI. For now, the feature supports text-only messaging through Apple’s Messages app — perfect for hikers, travelers, or anyone who might find themselves off the grid.

Industry watchers expect that T-Mobile in the U.S. could be next to introduce Starlink support for Apple Watches, similar to how it supports Starlink-based satellite-based texting on select iPhones.

Apple first launched satellite-powered Emergency SOS for iPhones back in 2022 and is now working to expand richer satellite features — including support for photos, offline Apple Maps navigation, and allowing even third-party apps to use satellite links.

The development also comes amid industry buzz that Globalstar is reportedly exploring a sale to SpaceX, raising speculation that Starlink could become an even more integral part of Apple’s ecosystem.

With SpaceX preparing to expand Starlink’s direct-to-device capabilities, Elon Musk’s company plans to launch thousands of next-generation “direct-to-cell” 5G satellites starting in 2026, using spectrum acquired from Dish. The move aims to deliver faster, broader satellite connectivity straight from orbit — no dish required.

For now, Apple Watch users in Canada and Japan get an early glimpse of a future where, even in the corners of the planet, they can stay connected — sending messages, sharing locations, or calling for help, all right from their wrist.