In an announcement posted on social media platform 𝕏 (formerly Twitter), T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert shared that the carrier was officially bringing T-Satellite powered by Starlink out of beta so that more users could take advantage of it.
While T-Mobile subscribers on select plans had access to T-Satellite powered by Starlink free of cost during the beta test period, that will be changing now that the feature is no longer in beta. Moreover, even those subscribed to competing cellular companies, like AT&T and Verizon, can get T-Satellite.
As noted on the T-Mobile website, T-Satellite is available for free on the carrier’s best cellular plans, including Go5G Next and Experience Beyond. But certain T-Mobile cellular plans excluding those we just mentioned can add T-Satellite to their service for $10 per month, per line for a limited time – after which, the price will rise to $15 per month, per line.
The same can be said about AT&T and Verizon customers who want T-Satellite. These customers can simply call T-Mobile customer service and probably hear a spiel about why they should switch to T-Mobile, but upon declining, they can elect to sign up only for T-Satellite for the limited-time promotional price of $10 per month, per line, before increasing to $15 per month, per line.
T-Satellite harnesses the power of 650 Starlink satellites, which frequently ride along on SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets into outer space. These satellites provide certain services, like iMessage and SMS, even when you find yourself completely out or range of cellular towers. Unfortunately, data isn’t yet supported, so this means you won’t be able to open Facebook, browse the web, or find YouTube how-to videos on T-Satellite.
Comparatively, Apple’s own Satellite services support messaging already, while also supporting first-party services like Find My, emergency communications, limited weather information, and more. While these services are currently free for iPhone users at this time, it remains to be seen if that might change in the future.
While T-Satellite works with a handful of manufacturers’ smartphones, we focus primarily on Apple here at iDownloadBlog, and we can tell you with confidence that the iPhone 14 or later with iOS 18.3 or newer installed is required to take advantage of these Satellite services. When connected, a SAT icon appears in the Status Bar, letting you know.
Are you excited to take advantage of T-Satellite? Let us know why or why not in the comments section down below.