T-Mobile and SpaceX have started a new satellite messaging service, but it’s only available for certain smartphones.
This service uses Starlink satellites to provide connection in areas without cell coverage. T-Mobile launched a beta program for this service on December 16, 2024, but not all phones will work with it.
In late November, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved T-Mobile and SpaceX’s plan to use Starlink satellites for mobile messaging.
The beta test is open to a limited number of customers with compatible phones and voice plans. However, not all modern smartphones are eligible at the moment.
T-Mobile says that during the beta phase, only a few optimized phones will work with the satellite-powered messaging.
The company plans to expand the service to more phones and customers as more satellites are launched. The full rollout is expected in early 2025.
T-Mobile has not yet revealed which phones are optimized for the service but promises more details in 2025.
The good news is that the service does not require specialized hardware or phones with satellite capabilities, like the iPhone 14 or Google Pixel 9.
While some users may be disappointed that most phones won’t work with the service right now, T-Mobile assures that this is temporary. As more satellites are launched, more phones will become compatible.
This service is especially useful in areas where cell coverage is weak or unavailable, such as mountains or deserts. It offers a backup for when traditional cell networks fail during natural disasters or technical issues.