T-Mobile Expands Starlink Satellite-to-Phone Connectivity to Rival Carriers
T-Mobile has announced the expansion of its Starlink satellite-to-phone connectivity beta program, making it available to customers of rival carriers AT&T and Verizon. The service, powered by SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, allows users to send SMS text messages in areas without traditional cellular coverage. The beta program is free for all users until July, after which T-Mobile plans to charge $15 per month for its own customers and $20 per month for AT&T and Verizon users.
T-Mobile’s Go5G Next plan subscribers will receive the service for free starting in July, while other T-Mobile customers can add it for $15 per month. Early adopters signing up this month can lock in a discounted rate of $10 per month. Users from rival carriers will need an unlocked, compatible smartphone that supports eSIM technology to access the service. T-Mobile has published a list of supported devices, which includes most smartphones released in the last four years, such as the iPhone 14 and later models.
The service currently supports SMS-based text messaging in dead zones, but T-Mobile and SpaceX plan to expand it to include voice calls and data downloads in the future, pending regulatory approvals. The beta program has already been tested by select T-Mobile users with Samsung Galaxy and Pixel devices, and the carrier has added tens of thousands of users to the beta.
T-Mobile’s decision to include AT&T and Verizon customers was influenced by a recent Verizon ad featuring astronaut Buzz Aldrin, which touted satellite texting capabilities. T-Mobile’s partnership with SpaceX, announced in 2022, aims to provide connectivity in remote areas using over 450 Starlink satellites. The service has already been used during natural disasters, such as wildfires, to keep people connected.
While the service is still in its early stages, T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert emphasized that the goal is to eliminate dead zones. However, beta testers have reported inconsistent signal quality, which SpaceX aims to improve with the launch of additional satellites. The service is expected to officially launch in July, with business customers and first responders also gaining access under specific plans.
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