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T-Mobile users can now try Starlink's satellite service for free – here's how
Slowly but surely, Starlink is growing into a leading broadband internet alternative. Its network of low Earth orbit satellites ensures its users high-speed internet access, even in areas where traditional infrastructure such as cell towers can’t reach. Soon, that technology can provide service to your T-Mobile mobile device.
Last week, several T-Mobile users shared on social media that they had received access to the carrier’s Starlink beta progrram, which was announced last month. The program aims to eliminate dead zones by leveraging Starlink’s 300 direct‑to‑cell satellites to provide coverage for 500,000 square miles of land in the US that are not covered by cell towers, according to T-Mobile.
Starlink will support only texting for now, but T-Mobile shares that the service eventually will be expanding to data and voice. The free beta provides users with high-speed internet connectivity in challenging-to-access places such as rural locations, concerts, and even airplanes.
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On a recent 12-hour flight, I had the chance to experience Starlink in-flight Wi-Fi and was fascinated by how good the connection was. It provided me with high-speed, reliable connectivity that did not waver throughout the flight, with speeds comparable to those I experience at home.
Unlike when connecting to a satellite on your iPhone through the iOS emergency messaging option, the Starlink experience is seamless. You continue to use your phone as you regularly would, with your only task being to enjoy the improved connection.
The beta program is free for all T-Mobile postpaid voice customers with a compatible device. When announced last month, the company said it will work with “most modern mobile phones.” First responder agencies and individuals are being given priority access to the beta.
However, PCMag reported that as of Jan. 14, a T-Mobile support document stated that the beta would only be supported by “the Galaxy Z Flip 6 5G, Galaxy Z Fold 6 5G, Galaxy S24 5G, Galaxy S24 Plus 5G, and Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G.” At the time of writing, the document no longer has that qualification, and does not specify compatible models, other than indicating phones must be running the latest software.
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All participants will be asked to give feedback before it is rolled out to all customers commercially, which will likely be sometime this year, according to the company. To register, fill out this form with your name, email, and phone number. If admitted, you will receive a notification.
Some users were already getting text message notifications inviting them to set up the T-Mobile Starlink before January, according to a Droid Life report. The users were both iOS and Android device owners. There is still time to sign up for the beta, as users will be given access on a first-come, first-serve basis.
