Imagine being able to send a quick text from your Apple Watch even when you're deep in the wilderness, far from any cell tower—thanks to SpaceX's innovative tech, this is now a reality in Canada and Japan! But here's where it gets intriguing: What if this satellite connectivity could reshape how we stay connected everywhere? Buckle up, because we're diving into the latest developments that might just change the game for wearable tech enthusiasts.
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SpaceX's cellular Starlink service, originally crafted to deliver seamless internet to smartphones, has taken an exciting leap forward by extending its reach to Apple Watches in select regions. For beginners wondering what this means, cellular Starlink essentially uses a network of orbiting satellites to provide connectivity where traditional cellular signals falter, like in rural areas or during emergencies. Now, users in Japan and Canada can link their Apple Watches to this service, opening up new possibilities for on-the-go communication.
According to a recent quarterly earnings report from Japanese telecom giant KDDI (https://www.kddi.com/extlib/files/english/corporate/ir/library/presentation/2026/pdf/kddi251106emain2Rj8Tn.pdf), as highlighted by Ookla analyst Mike Dano on X (https://x.com/mikeddano/status/1986450107299234294), their Au wireless network has integrated support for Apple Watches. This allows SpaceX satellites to transmit data directly to the latest Apple Watch models: the rugged Ultra 3 (https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/apple-watch-ultra-3), the versatile Series 11 (https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/apple-watch-series-11), and the budget-friendly SE 3 (https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/apple-watch-se-3). To put it simply, these watches can now tap into satellite signals for basic functions, making them even more indispensable for adventurers or anyone needing reliable backup connectivity.
Au has also refreshed its support page (https://www.au.com/mobile/service/starlink-direct/usage/apple-watch/) to detail this compatibility with SpaceX’s cellular Starlink. However, it's worth noting that this feature is exclusively for Japanese users who opt for the cellular-enabled version of the Apple Watch and subscribe to Au's Starlink Direct plan. Think of it as pairing a smartwatch with a specialized satellite booster—only then can the full potential unlock.
(Credit: KDDI)
As the earnings presentation clarifies, 'Only text message sending and receiving via Apple Watch messages app is supported.' This keeps things focused on essentials, like quick check-ins, without overwhelming the device with complex tasks. For instance, if you're hiking in a national park with patchy cell service, you could still ping a loved one to say you're safe— a game-changer for peace of mind.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, SpaceX's Canadian partner, Rogers Communications, has rolled out the same Apple Watch support. Cellular Starlink is being offered as a free beta (https://www.pcmag.com/news/spacexs-cellular-starlink-arrives-in-canada-through-rogers-carrier) to all Canadian subscribers, making it an easy trial for anyone curious about satellite-powered wearables. And this is the part most people miss: Why not make this accessible to everyone? It could democratize connectivity, but some argue it might complicate device ecosystems with multiple providers.
This development hints that SpaceX's U.S. ally, T-Mobile, might soon introduce similar features domestically. T-Mobile already offers ground-based cellular plans that work with Apple Watches, and their T-Satellite service supports over 70 phone models, including the iPhone 13 and iPhone Air. Imagine expanding that to watches— it could mean seamless transitions between satellite and cellular networks, especially in vast American landscapes like the Rockies.
T-Mobile hasn't commented yet on our inquiries, but the potential is huge. Recommended by Our Editors
Beyond the tech specs, this update empowers more Apple Watch owners to access satellite connectivity in cellular dead zones. Take September's Apple event, for example, where the company unveiled new smartwatch models—only the Apple Watch Ultra 3 came equipped with built-in satellite features for emergencies (https://support.apple.com/en-us/125126). That model also supports satellite texting and location sharing (https://support.apple.com/en-us/125127), but only with an active carrier plan linked to the watch. Now, with SpaceX stepping in, users with other models can bridge that gap, potentially turning every traveler into a connected explorer.
Adding fuel to the fire, Apple's satellite collaborator, Globalstar, is reportedly mulling a sale to SpaceX (https://www.pcmag.com/news/report-apple-satellite-partner-globalstar-could-sell-to-spacex), sparking buzz that cellular Starlink might become a cornerstone for Apple devices. This could lead to broader integrations, like satellite-enabled data streaming to apps on both Android and iOS, or even video calls (https://www.pcmag.com/news/i-tested-video-chats-on-t-mobiles-cellular-starlink-and-it-was-pretty-mind). Picture this: Not just texting, but full-fledged video chats from a mountaintop—revolutionizing remote work and family calls.
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About Our Expert
Michael Kan
Senior Reporter
Experience
With over 15 years in journalism under his belt, Michael started his career covering schools and local news in Kansas City before joining PCMag in 2017. There, he's delved into topics like satellite internet, cybersecurity, and PC hardware, all while based in San Francisco after years in China reporting on its booming tech scene.
Since 2020, Michael's been at the forefront of SpaceX's Starlink saga, penning more than 600 articles on its growth, from launch milestones to feature rollouts. He's navigated regulatory hurdles, rivalries with competitors such as AST SpaceMobile and Amazon, and the push into mobile satellite services. To get the scoop, he's pored over FCC documents and even ventured to California's out-of-the-way spots for hands-on testing.
Beyond satellites, Michael tackles cyber threats, including ransomware and AI-driven malware. His recent exposé, in collaboration with Motherboard, led the FTC to fine Avast $16.5 million for covertly selling user data (https://www.pcmag.com/news/did-avast-sell-your-data-heres-how-to-get-a-piece-of-the-ftc-settlement), shining a light on privacy pitfalls in free antivirus software (https://www.pcmag.com/news/the-cost-of-avasts-free-antivirus-companies-can-spy-on-your-clicks).
He also keeps tabs on the PC graphics market, sharing personal tales like camping out for an RTX 3000 card during shortages (https://www.pcmag.com/news/i-camped-out-at-best-buy-to-get-an-rtx-3000-graphics-card-feel-my-pain). Now, he's watching how trade policies, including recent tariffs, might shake things up. Always open to insights, Michael welcomes your thoughts in the comments and invites tips to keep the conversation going.
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But here's where it gets controversial: Will this satellite integration push Apple into a deeper alliance with SpaceX, potentially sidelining traditional carriers? Some tech enthusiasts cheer it as innovation, while skeptics worry about data security in space or the environmental impact of more satellites. What do you think—should wearable devices prioritize satellite backups over cellular, or is this just a niche feature? Share your views in the comments below; do you agree this expands connectivity, or disagree that it complicates things further? Let's discuss!
