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Although T-Satellite is a T-Mobile service, US users on rival carriers can access the satellite connectivity too for $10 per month. Here’s how it works and how to sign up.
After years of work, T-Mobile and SpaceX are ready to officially launch the cellular Starlink service, allowing smartphone users to remain connected in dead zones.
This “T-Satellite” service has been available since January through a free beta program, which attracted about 1.8 million sign-ups. But starting July 23, T-Mobile begins charging subscribers for T-Satellite, as competition in satellite-to-phone services heats up.
Below, we’ll cover basic questions about the cellular Starlink service. Unlike the regular Starlink broadband system for homes, businesses, and RVs, the T-Satellite tech is designed to beam data to everyday smartphones, no accessories needed.
How Do I Get T-Satellite? What If I Don’t Use T-Mobile?
Interested customers should go to T-Mobile’s dedicated website for satellite service. Existing T-Mobile subscribers can purchase the cellular Starlink service as an add-on by going into their account. But those on pricier plans (Experience Beyond and Go5G Next) get it as a free perk.
Meanwhile, US consumers on rival networks can also subscribe.
T-Mobile is enabling satellite connectivity through a digital eSIM slot on supported phones.
This means you can continue using your primary carrier but switch to the T-Satellite service through the secondary eSIM when you enter a cellular dead zone.
But in some bad news, non-T-Mobile customers will need to call the company at 877-686-8902 or visit a retail location to receive access.
That’s slightly inconvenient; during the free beta program, the sign-up process was conducted entirely online. Instead, it looks like T-Mobile is trying to entice customers on other carriers to switch over to access the cellular Starlink service.
Some AT&T and Verizon users may already have access to T-Satellite by participating in the free beta. These users should now expect an extra $10 on their monthly bills.
T-Mobile tells us it notified beta users and “eligible customers” on June 23 that they’d be auto-enrolled in T-Satellite, effective July 23. Anyone else must “reactivate the service if they want to keep using T-Satellite,” the carrier says. If you no longer wish to use the service, you can remove it in “Manage Data & Add-Ons” in your account,” T-Mobile’s support page adds.
Who Is This For?
If you live in a city or a densely populated suburb, cellular dead zones probably aren’t a big problem. (Our sibling site CNET said the hardest part about testing T-Satellite was actually finding a dead zone.) But it’s common for people who live in rural or remote areas, where cell coverage is sparse. T-Satellite is designed to fix this by “eliminating dead zones for good,” according to T-Mobile. To do so, SpaceX uses special Starlink satellites to act as orbiting cell towers in space.
“No towers nearby? No problem. If you can see the sky, you’re connected,” T-Mobile says.
We tried the service last month, and it works as advertised, although momentary delays can occur when receiving or transmitting satellite-powered messages. The cellular Starlink won’t appeal to city dwellers, but if you’re planning long hiking or camping trips, it might be worthwhile.
emojis with sat.
The satellite connectivity activates when you enter a T-Mobile dead zone. Although it works best with a clear view of the sky, it still functions inside a car and when the phone’s in your pocket.
T-Mobile also views satellite connectivity as a life-saving service for people in emergencies. “Later this year, T-Satellite will provide 911 texting service to any mobile customer with a compatible device, regardless of carrier or whether or not they are subscribed to the service,” the carrier said last month. (T-Mobile said T-Satellite was not impacted by the recent Starlink outage)