In 2022, T-Mobile and SpaceX partnered to create a direct-to-sell satellite service. It’s finally here – in beta form, with a launch tentatively planned for 2024, but you can sign up today at t-mobile.com/satellite.
Indeed, the T-Mobile Starlink service has already seen some use — it was temporarily enabled during Hurricanes Helene and Milton to allow people to reach emergency responders and their friends and family.
T-Mobile is prioritizing first responders for the beta program because of the vital role they play during emergencies. But the carrier will also allow individuals to join. The Starlink service will also be available to businesses.
What is T-Mobile Starlink? It uses Starlink satellites – there are over 300 satellites in orbit now and more launching soon – which act as regular cell towers, so your phone doesn’t need any special hardware (like that phones with satellite messaging available today).
Right now, Starlink only handles text messages – regular text, no additional apps required – but in the future it will support voice calls and even data. Unlike regular cell towers, satellites can bring connectivity to up to 500,000 square miles in the US, where there is currently no cell coverage.
The launch of the beta came after being given the green light by the FCC (due to the way it uses terrestrial services, it requires FCC approval). It will cover the continental US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska and Puerto Rico, and even territorial waters.
T-Mobile says you’ll be able to use Starlink not only in remote areas, but also on planes and while traveling abroad. T-Mobile and SpaceX are forming alliances with other carriers around the world. Here are some of its members: KDDI (Japan), Optus (Australia), One NZ (New Zealand), Salt (Switzerland), Entel (Chile and Peru) and Rogers (Canada).
The T-Mobile Starlink beta service will go live early next year, but if you want to try it out, you should sign up now.
If you want to see T-Mobile Starlink in action, here’s Mark Robert traveling to a remote lake to try it out.
