Summary
- T-Mobile’s satellite texting service is now rolling out in beta to non-T-Mobile subscribers, with AT&T users reporting receiving invitations.
- The beta provides free satellite texting via a temporary T-Mobile eSIM, which also grants access to T-Mobile’s 5G network (including 50GB of data and unlimited texts) and T-Mobile perks for 90 days.
- Currently, the satellite service only supports text messaging, with plans to add data and voice capabilities in the future; the included 50GB of data is for use on T-Mobile’s regular network.
Among the big three US carriers, T-Mobile is leading the satellite race.
The carrier direct-to-cell service has already been battle tested. In October, when Hurricane Milton devastated Florida, T-Mobile and Starlink enabled their satellite-based texting service for all T-Mobile users in the affected areas. Subsequently, in January this year, the service was switched on again for wildfire-stricken Los Angeles.
This was only after the carrier gained full FCC approval. Fast-forward to February, and T-Mobile opened up its Starlink beta for all, including Verizon and AT&T customers.
Those not on T-Mobile’s network that signed up for the beta back then appear to be gaining access to the satellite service now.
Free 50GB data included
Android Police and APKMirror founder Artem Russakovskii received an invitation to the T-Mobile beta today (on AT&T). Other AT&T users have reported gaining access sporadically over the last two weeks.
Once invited, the procedure to enable the functionality likely involves downloading a T-Mobile eSIM profile to your phone. Being on T-Mobile’s network via the free eSIM is what unlocks satellite connectivity for users on other networks. In addition to satellite connectivity, the free eSIM also unlocks these benefits for 90 days:
- Access to T-Mobile’s 5G network, including 50GB of high-speed data and unlimited texts.
- T-Mobile benefits like $5 movie tickets, 25% off concert tickets, travel discounts, and T-Mobile Tuesdays for free stuff and great perks every week.
- Access to T-Satellite for $10/mo instead of $15/mo when the 90-day trial period ends.
It’s worth noting that T-Mobile’s program currently only supports texting, with data and voice call support expected to land later this year. The 50 gigs of data is simply a bonus that can be used when you’re within T-Mobile’s network footprint.
Did you sign up to try out the T-Satellite beta? Have you received an invitation yet? Let us know in the comment section below.
