T-Mobile users can try Starlink-enabled phone service for free during beta

5 days ago 3

T-Mobile today said it opened registration for the "T-Mobile Starlink" beta service that will enable text messaging via satellites in dead zones not covered by cell towers.

T-Mobile's announcement said the service using Starlink's low-Earth orbit satellites will "provid[e] coverage for the 500,000 square miles of land in the United States not covered by earth-bound cell towers." Starlink parent SpaceX has so far launched over 300 satellites with direct-to-cell capabilities, T-Mobile noted.

A registration page says, "We expect the beta to begin in early 2025, starting with texting and expanding to data and voice over time. The beta is open to all T-Mobile postpaid customers for free, but capacity is limited."

T-Mobile said the beta "is expected to work with most modern mobile phones" but will work best with "select smartphones." People with those "select" devices will apparently have a better chance of getting into the beta.

"T-Mobile postpaid customers with optimized devices will be admitted on a 'first come, first served' basis," T-Mobile said. "We'll expand the beta to more customers and more devices as more satellites launch."

Businesses and first responders can also register. "Because of the critical role these first responder agencies and individuals play in safeguarding our communities, T-Mobile is prioritizing this audience for the beta program," the carrier said.