T-Mobile and Starlink launch beta program for satellite connectivity

T-Mobile is starting to roll out Starlink access for satellite connectivity in dead zones.

On Monday, the telecom company shared that it has opened registration for a Starlink beta program. All T-Mobile customers can register to join the beta program and test out the satellite messaging feature. But spaces are limited, and T-Mobile is prioritizing first responder individuals and organizations, said the announcement.

The T-Mobile Starlink beta program comes a month after the satellite-to-phone service received approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The regulatory framework for providing satellite coverage involved making sure it didn't interfere with networks provided by cell towers. But the FCC is fully on board with a space solution to supplement earthly coverage areas. "The FCC is actively promoting competition in the space economy by supporting more partnerships between terrestrial mobile carriers and satellite operators to deliver on a single network future that will put an end to mobile dead zones," said FCC Chairperson Jessica Rosenworcel.

Previously, the FCC granted Starlink "special temporary authority" to provide a free trial of emergency satellite texting to T-Mobile users impacted by Hurricane Helene and Milton.

Soon, T-Mobile customers will be able to have this kind of broad access all the time. T-Mobile and Starlink coverage aims to provide connectivity to over half a million square miles of remote areas that can't be access otherwise. "T-Mobile Starlink is the first major low-earth orbit constellation in the world paired with terrestrial cellular spectrum, making the phone in your pocket work in areas of the U.S. that have never, and probably never will, have ground based coverage," said Mike Katz, president of Marketing, Strategy and Products.

The beta program will initially support just texting, but voice and data will eventually be a part of future service.