Starlink and T-Mobile: cell phones compatible with satellite internet starting October 2025
The intersection between mobile connectivity and satellite technology has begun to materialize with a new service that promises to revolutionize the communication experience in areas underserved by traditional networks. Starlink, SpaceX's satellite project, has partnered with T-Mobile to offer an innovative solution that will allow users of certain mobile devices to access the internet via satellites, even when there is no mobile network signal available.
T-Satellite: A New Concept in Connectivity
This new service, called T-Satellite, will launch on October 1, 2025, and enable millions of users in the United States to interact differently with their mobile devices in the absence of cellular signal. Compatible phones will be able to connect directly to Starlink's satellite network, facilitating the ability to send messages, make emergency calls, and use data for specific applications.
This innovation will be particularly useful in situations such as hiking, large festivals, or in rural areas where cellular signals may be ineffective. For the first time, users will be able to utilize essential applications such as maps and messaging without relying on conventional cellular towers.
Devices Compatible with T-Satellite
T-Mobile has released an official list of devices that will be compatible with T-Satellite technology. Among the phones that will be able to enjoy this service are:
- Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and Pixel X Fold: will enable text messages, MMS, and data access from day one.
- Pixel 9 and 9 Pro (including XL and Fold versions): enabled for text and MMS; data access will be available starting October 2025.
- Pixel 9a: text messages only.
Apple (iPhone)
- From iPhone 13 to iPhone 17: currently allows sending text messages; data and MMS functions will be incorporated in future updates.
Motorola
- 2025 Models: Moto Edge, Moto G 5G, G Power 5G, and the Razr series (including Razr+ and Razr Ultra) will support text and MMS; data access will come at a later stage.
- 2024 Models: limited to text and MMS functions, with no data available.
Samsung
- Older Devices: Galaxy A14, S21, Z Flip3, and Z Fold3, which will only work with text messages.
- 2025 Models: will include data access in October for Galaxy A15, A16, A25, A35, A36, A53, A54, A56, as well as the Galaxy S22, S23, S24, and S25 series. Foldable devices starting from Z Flip5 and Z Fold5 will also be included.
T-Mobile (REVVL)
- REVVL 7, 7 Pro, and REVVL 8: currently limited to text messages; MMS and data will be available in the future.
How Satellite Connection Works
The satellite connectivity of this service does not require additional equipment or special antennas. When devices detect that they are out of mobile coverage range, they will automatically connect to Starlink's satellite network. The screen will display a message indicating "T-Mobile SpaceX," confirming that the service is active.
Due to bandwidth limitations, only certain applications will be optimized to work with satellite data. Among the applications expected to offer smooth performance are Google Maps, Messages, and Find Hub. This approach has been designed to ensure that essential tasks can be carried out, even though it does not fully replace conventional mobile connectivity.
Additionally, the infrastructure is aligned to prioritize critical functions, such as emergency calls to 911, reinforcing their importance in crisis situations.
Launch and Availability of the Service
The official announcement of the T-Satellite service was made on July 24, 2025, and its availability for mobile data will begin on October 1 of the same year. Although initially limited to users in the United States, T-Mobile has expressed its intention to explore international coverage in the future, along with other roaming agreements.
As for costs, users with plans such as Go5G Next or Experience Beyond will have access to the service without additional charges. Those who are not direct T-Mobile customers will have the option to subscribe to the service for approximately $10 per month.
The Importance of This Innovation
The collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink marks a milestone in the development of modern telecommunications. While satellite connectivity had previously been restricted to specialized phones and limited services, with the arrival of T-Satellite, any user with a compatible device will be able to take advantage of this technology without needing to change equipment.
In times when dependence on smartphones is increasingly pronounced, maintaining key functions such as messaging and navigation accessible in remote locations can be crucial both in everyday life and in emergencies.
This establishment of mobile connectivity will no longer be limited solely to traditional towers; satellites are now integrating into the equation, and the alliance between T-Mobile and Starlink is leading the way in implementing this technology in common devices.
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