T-Mobile and starlink has announced that over 500,000 square miles of the United States, previously unreachable by cell towers, will now have network access. This area is equivalent to the size of two Texas. The telecom giant made this announcement during the Super Bowl event.
Free Beta Version Available Until July
T-Mobile is offering a beta version of its satellite-powered connectivity in partnership with Elon Musk‘s Starlink. This service will be free for users in the U.S. until July 2025. Starlink, which operates a growing network of more than 3,500 satellites in low-Earth orbit, will help deliver this new connectivity.
Features and Benefits of T-Mobile Starlink
Initial Service Limited to Text Messaging
During the beta phase, users will only be able to send text messages. Other features, including picture messaging, data services, and voice calls, will be introduced later, though no specific timeline has been provided.
Seamless Connectivity with Existing Smartphones
T-Mobile’s Starlink service will automatically connect phones when they go out of range of traditional cell towers. Most smartphones from the last four years will be compatible, without requiring any manual connection or special software.
Availability Across All Telecom Providers
Even customers of rival telecom providers, including AT&T and Verizon, can use T-Mobile Starlink without switching their carrier. This makes the service widely accessible.
Nationwide Wireless Emergency Alerts
T-Mobile will also use Starlink to broadcast Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) nationwide. This will be particularly useful for people in remote locations or areas affected by severe weather or natural disasters.
Pricing and Subscription Details
Free Until July, Then Included in Select Plans
- T-Mobile Customers: After July, the service will be included at no extra cost for users on Go5G Next, Go5G Next 55+, Go5G Business Next, and T-Priority plans.
- Other T-Mobile Plans: Customers can add the service for $15 per month per line.
- Early Adopter Discount: Those who sign up in February can get a discounted price of $10 per month per line.
- AT&T and Verizon Users: The service will be available for $20 per month per line starting in July.
How to Register for T-Mobile Starlink Beta
Anyone, including businesses and first responders, can sign up for the beta program. Users will be enrolled gradually to test the system and provide feedback before its full launch in July.
A Game Changer for Mobile Connectivity
Mike Sievert, President and CEO of T-Mobile, highlighted the significance of this development, calling it a “massive technical achievement and a game changer for all wireless users.” He emphasized that T-Mobile Starlink aims to eliminate dead zones across the country.
Global Expansion of Satellite-to-Mobile Technology
T-Mobile and Starlink have also invited telecom providers worldwide to join the initiative. Companies such as KDDI (Japan), Telstra and Optus (Australia), One NZ (New Zealand), Salt (Switzerland), Entel (Chile & Peru), Rogers (Canada), and Kyivstar (Ukraine) have already partnered to launch similar satellite-to-mobile services.
This collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink marks a significant step toward eliminating network dead zones and providing seamless connectivity in previously unreachable locations.
