T-Mobile announced on Sunday that it has begun large-scale testing of its new satellite-to-cell service, which is powered by SpaceX’s Starlink. This service aims to eliminate mobile dead zones and extend coverage to remote areas.
The beta trial will be free until July. After that, it will be included in T-Mobile’s premium Go5G Next plan at no additional cost. For other plans, the service will cost $15 per month once it officially launches this summer.
This service could change the way mobile connectivity works by combining traditional cell networks with satellite technology, offering coverage almost anywhere on Earth. T-Mobile says that 500,000 square miles of the U.S., which are not covered by regular cell towers, will now be connected.
During the beta launch, the service will offer text messaging via satellite, with voice and data features to be added later. Customers who join the trial will receive a 33% discount when the service officially launches.
T-Mobile’s efforts to improve coverage in small and rural areas have helped it lead in new phone additions, especially in the fourth quarter. Mike Katz, T-Mobile’s president of marketing, strategy, and products, emphasized that no other U.S. carrier offers this kind of service. He also pointed out that it has worked with most smartphones for the last four years.
T-Mobile has collaborated with Apple and Google to ensure that their phones will integrate this service directly into their operating systems, making it the default satellite system. The service will also be available to users of AT&T and Verizon, without the need to switch carriers.
