T-Mobile is set to officially launch its satellite-powered messaging service, “T-Satellite,” on July 23, following months of beta testing.
Powered by SpaceX’s Starlink technology, the service will initially support SMS on both Android and iOS, and MMS on Android, with iOS MMS support expected soon after.
At launch, T-Satellite will be bundled for free with T-Mobile’s “Experience Beyond” plan, while users on other plans—or even non-T-Mobile customers—can access it for $10 per month. The service will be available nationwide, even in areas without traditional cell coverage.
T-Mobile has confirmed that satellite data capabilities will be added starting October 1, though it won’t enable full internet access just yet. Only select apps—such as AllTrails, AccuWeather, and WhatsApp—are expected to function initially over the satellite connection. Tech giants Apple and Google are listed as partners; however, no specific app integrations from them have been announced to date.
Unlike competitors Verizon and AT&T, which are working with AST SpaceMobile, T-Mobile’s collaboration with Starlink takes a unique route to satellite connectivity. While Verizon has rolled out limited satellite messaging for certain Android devices, and AT&T has demonstrated satellite calling, T-Mobile’s nationwide rollout appears to be moving ahead despite opposition. Both AT&T and Verizon have expressed concerns, claiming SpaceX’s satellite network could interfere with their plans, though those objections haven’t slowed T-Mobile down.
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