T-Mobile US Launches Satellite Connectivity for All Smartphones

T-Mobile US has unveiled a new service allowing customers, regardless of their mobile provider, to connect their standard smartphones to Starlink satellites for messaging in areas lacking cellular coverage.

This initiative follows the conclusion of an extensive beta testing phase and enables users to send and receive text messages, share their location, make emergency calls, and even send photos and voice messages via Google Messages in remote regions.

The service, known as 'T-Satellite', is available for T-Mobile US customers and users of other carriers. Customers who are not subscribed to a T-Mobile plan costing $100 or more monthly will need to pay an additional $15 per month for this service, although a promotional introductory price of $10 is currently offered.

T-Mobile US has explained that this service utilizes over 650 Starlink satellites operated by SpaceX. When a smartphone cannot connect to a cell tower in a remote area, it automatically connects to one of these satellites, providing coverage across the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and parts of Alaska, given there is an unobstructed view of the sky.

Future updates to the service aim to expand features, allowing users to send images and voice messages through various platforms, as well as providing mobile internet connections.

SpaceX has been developing the Starlink satellite network for several years, initially requiring specialized antennas for connectivity. However, the company has been launching upgraded satellites since early 2024 that will directly connect to smartphones. It is worth noting that connectivity conditions can vary significantly by region; for instance, in Central Europe, differing national regulations regarding telecommunications present challenges. Consequently, companies like Deutsche Telekom are exploring alternative solutions. In contrast, providers in Ukraine, such as Kyivstar, are planning similar offerings for later this year. T-Mobile US initiated its beta testing program back in February.