T-Mobile has launched its satellite texting service nationwide in a move to lure in users before it goes fully commercial with Starlink constellations. It’s the first and highly bold move by the un-carrier as it seeks to take an early lead in the mobile satellite connectivity.
The service, which comes via the telco’s partnership with Starlink, has been launched for everybody, including users of other telecom operators anywhere in the US. It’s free too. Media outlets have also reported that non-subscribers of T-Mobile can join aboard without shifting to it when the service officially launches.
T-Mobile launches satellite service
The T-Satellite activates by default on a “satellite-optimized” phone when a user goes out of a mobile network. Users can use the service to send and receive text messages. It’s a lifesaver when you are out of a traditional mobile infrastructure and can still connect to your family and friends.
Going forward, the telco wants to bring in both data and voice services, which is a major breakthrough in satellite communication, which so far has remained applicable to text messaging.
Also: T-Mobile launches multiple fiber internet deals, serves up to 2 Gbps connection
T-Satellite Costs
T-Mobile will commercially launch T-Satellite in July 2025. In terms of the cost for subscription, it will come free with its Experience Beyond and Go5G Next schemes. At the same time, customers with the Experience More plan will get free service till the end of 2025.
Users of other carriers will need to pay $15 a month to use the T-Satellite service.
List of eligible phones for T-Mobile T-Satellite service
The list of T-Mobile’s T-Satellite supporting phones is limited due to the hardware requirements. Having said that, there is a huge number of devices that support satellite text service.
T-Mobile leverages 1900MHz-band transmitters built into the Starlink satellites, which allows lots of phones to support it. But the catch is that you need to have a carrier-unlocked phone with eSIM support. The list is below and is not limited to these only:
- Apple: iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, iPhone 16 series
- Google: Google Pixel 9 series (all models, including foldable)
- Motorola: moto razr 2024, moto razr+ 2024, moto razr 2025, moto razr+ 2025, moto razr ultra 2025
- Samsung: Samsung Galaxy A36, Samsung Galaxy A36 SE, Samsung Galaxy A54*, Samsung Galaxy S21 series, Samsung Galaxy S22 series, Samsung Galaxy S23 series, Samsung Galaxy S24 series, Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Samsung Galaxy XCover7 Pro, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 to Flip6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 to Fold6
How to join the beta T-Mobile satellite service
To join the beta T-Mobile Satellite service, T-Satellite, follow the steps below:
- Visit T-Satellite phone service for registration and sign up for the beta service
- Enter your name, email, and phone number
- Click Submit
If you sign up, you are added to the waiting list. Due to huge demands, it may take time for you to start getting the service. However, it should be worth the wait. The good thing? It’s completely free, at least for now, in its beta phase. Satellite connectivity provides a new way of connecting wirelessly. Most importantly, it removes the need for cellular towers for coverage. If you hike, trek, or stay off the grid, a satellite feature is a must for your phone, which can prove to be a lifesaver in extreme situations.