T-Mobile and SpaceX’s Starlink are working together to eliminate mobile dead zones by bringing satellite connectivity directly to smartphones – without requiring any extra hardware.
The service is powered by specially-configured satellites orbiting over 200 miles above Earth at speeds exceeding 17,000 miles per hour, delivering cellular signals to areas where traditional tower coverage fails.
At launch, the T-Mobile Starlink network will support text messaging, group texts, and reactions. The two companies plan to expand the service to include picture messaging, voice calls, and mobile data. When a phone moves out of range of a cell tower, it will automatically connect to Starlink’s satellites, so communication continues without any manual user intervention; messages will continue to be sent and received as they would on a cell network.
According to T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert, the collaboration between the two companies is a breakthrough in wireless connectivity. “T-Mobile Starlink is the first and only space-based mobile network in the US that automatically connects to your phone, so you can stay connected even where no cellular network reaches,” Sievert said. “We’re still in the early days, but we’re officially putting ‘no bars’ on notice.’ Dead zones, your days are numbered.”
Connectivity – anywhere with a clear view of the sky
The T-Mobile Starlink service is designed to work on most smartphones released in the last four years, so there is no need for special equipment or hardware upgrade. T-Mobile will release a list of supported devices which will include models with the minimum spec of the iPhone 14, Samsung Galaxy S21, and some Google Pixel devices. More model will be added over time.
Beyond standard messaging, the network will also support Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs), so users in remote locations or disaster-stricken areas can receive important notifications from a T-Mobile Starlink satellite outside traditional cellular coverage zones.
Beta testing begins – free access until July
T-Mobile is beginning to enrol users in a beta programme ahead of the official launch in July. Initially, the corporation invited a few T-Mobile with newer devices to test the service. However, the beta is now open to everyone with any wireless carrier, including AT&T and Verizon customers. Beta programme participants will be enrolled gradually as T-Mobile fine-tunes the service before full rollout.
Once the service officially launches, pricing will be as follows:
- T-Mobile Go5G Next and Go5G Business Next customers: Included at no additional cost
- T-Mobile customers on other plans: $15 per month per line
- AT&T and Verizon customers: $20 per month per line
For early adopters, T-Mobile is offering a discount throughout February, charging $10 per month per line – a 33% reduction.
AT&T and Verizon customers can join the beta
AT&T and Verizon customers also get the chance to join the beta programme on their existing smartphones, and will be able to send satellite texts for free. After the full launch in July, they will have the option to continue their subscription at $20 per month per line rate. The service does not require any additional hardware – only a compatible, unlocked smartphone that supports eSIMs.
Building a global satellite network
T-Mobile and Starlink’s offering is initially for US customers, but global wireless providers are invited to join the satellite-to-mobile alliance. Several international carriers have already partnered, including KDDI (Japan), Telstra (Australia), Optus (Australia), One NZ (New Zealand), Rogers (Canada), Salt (Switzerland), Entel (Chile & Peru), and Kyivstar (Ukraine).
Expanding the future of space-based connectivity
At present, T-Mobile Starlink connectivity is limited to SMS messaging, but future upgrades will introduce voice calling and mobile data, effectively turning every subscriber’s compatible smartphone into a satellite-enabled device.
The beta programme is now open.
(Photo by Unsplash)
See also: AST SpaceMobile stock soars following Verizon partnership announcement
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