T-Mobile’s Starlink-Powered Satellite Texting Is Now Live for Everyone

After months of testing behind the scenes, T-Mobile has officially flipped the switch on its satellite messaging service, T-Satellite. And here’s the twist: it’s no longer limited to T-Mobile users. Thanks to its deal with Starlink, the service is now open to anyone in the US. That includes folks on AT&T, Verizon, or basically any other carrier.

This service lets you send and receive basic text messages even when you’re totally off the grid. I’m talking about those moments when you’re deep in the woods, on a long stretch of highway, or stuck during a power outage with zero bars. As long as your phone has a clear view of the sky, it can ping a Starlink satellite up above and get your message through.

What Is T-Satellite and How Does It Work?

T-Satellite is T-Mobile’s new satellite texting feature. It runs on a network of over 650 Starlink low-Earth orbit satellites and is designed for those dead zones where cell towers don’t reach. Right now, it’s focused on basic functions like SMS and GPS-based location sharing.

According to T-Mobile, if your phone can’t find a regular signal or Wi-Fi, it’ll automatically switch into satellite mode. Supported devices will even show a little “SAT” icon to let you know it’s using the satellite network. It doesn’t support calls or full-blown data yet, but T-Mobile says that’s all coming later.

Supported Devices and Who Can Use T-Satellite

You don’t have to be on T-Mobile’s network to use this. If you’re in the US, you’re eligible. That includes Verizon and AT&T users, which is honestly pretty wild.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• An unlocked phone that supports both eSIM and satellite connectivity.
• An iPhone 13 or newer running iOS 18.3 or later.
• Pixel 9, Galaxy S21 or newer. There are also a bunch of Samsung A series and Motorola phones on the list.
• A wide open sky view. If you’re surrounded by thick trees or heavy cloud cover, the signal might not get through.

T-Mobile says over 60 phones work with it right now, and more are being added.

T-Satellite Plans, Pricing, and How to Subscribe

If you’re already paying for T-Mobile’s $100/month Experience Beyond or one of the older Go5G plans, you’re all set. T-Satellite is baked in.

For everyone else:

• It’s $10 per month during the promo period, then it’ll bump up to $15.
• T-Mobile users can just tack it onto their existing account.
• If you’re on AT&T or Verizon, you’ll need to call 1-855-964-2136 or visit a T-Mobile store.

What Can You Do with T-Satellite Right Now?

So far, here’s what the service actually does:

• Send and receive basic text messages, including 911 texts.
• Share your live location through a clickable link.
• On select Android phones, photo sharing is also supported, which is cool but still a bit limited.

You can’t make calls or use regular apps yet. But T-Mobile says support for things like voice messages and satellite-friendly versions of apps like WhatsApp, AllTrails, and AccuWeather is coming soon.

During the beta, more than 2 million people tried it out. It was already being used during wildfires, hurricanes, and floods. In some of those cases, T-Mobile pushed out Wireless Emergency Alerts to all users, regardless of carrier. That’s a huge deal if you’re stuck in a disaster zone.

How Is It Different From Apple or Verizon’s Satellite Features?

If you’re wondering how this stacks up to Apple’s emergency SOS feature or Verizon’s new Skylo texting, here’s a quick breakdown:

• Apple: iPhone 14 and newer can use Globalstar satellites for emergency texts, Find My location sharing, and SOS. It’s free for now, but only works in emergencies.
• Verizon: Also has a satellite texting setup using Skylo, but it’s only for Verizon customers with the newest devices.
• T-Satellite: Works across all major US carriers, supports a wider range of phones, and can be used outside of emergencies.

What’s Coming Next for T-Satellite

T-Mobile says more features are rolling out in October. That includes offline maps, weather alerts, and maybe even support outside the US. It’s not satellite internet, so don’t expect to stream Netflix from the mountains. But if you just need to text your family or check in during an emergency, it could be a lifesaver.

Honestly, this feels like the kind of thing you won’t think about until you really need it. But once you’re in that no-signal moment, it might be the feature that saves the day.