Your iPhone May Get a Starlink Boost From T-Mobile on July 23

We recently covered the news that iOS 18.5 was bringing satellite connectivity features to the iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 does not have the hardware to support Apple’s lifesaving satellite safety features, Emergency SOS via satellite, Roadside Assistance via satellite, or Messages via satellite. These services are only available on the iPhone 14 and newer models and use Globalstar’s satellite network.

What the iPhone 13 (along with newer iPhones) can do is communicate with satellites via 5G frequencies via carrier-provided satellite features. There’s more. You don’t need to be a T-Mobile customer to access the T-Mobile Satellite with Starlink service. It will be available to AT&T and Verizon customers, too.

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When T-Mobile’s satellite service launches, it will only support text messages on the iPhone when users are outside of their cellular provider’s coverage area. The best part is users won’t need to point their phone at the sky to connect, like with Apple’s Messages via satellite, which requires the user to “be outside with a clear view of the sky and horizon.” Instead, the service works while your iPhone is in your pocket, just like it does through your carrier now.

According to T-Mobile’s press release, the service will initially support only SMS texting for iPhone, but MMS, picture messaging, and short audio clip support will follow. Users may use the service to text 911. “T-Satellite” will also launch a data service to allow “application experiences” on October 1.

T-Mobile said T-Satellite’s beta program has been “incredibly successful,” with nearly 1.8 million users participating, including customers from Verizon and AT&T. More than a million messages have been sent via the beta program from areas like national parks and oil fields, and nearly 3 million messages have been received.

T-Mobile is prioritizing support for apps most commonly used by adventurers like AllTrails, WhatsApp, and AccuWeather. If you’re on T-Mobile’s Experience beyond plan, T-Satellite will be included for free. It’s only $10 per month for Apple and AT&T customers with the iPhone 13 or newer. Prioritizing safety first, later this year, T-Mobile will provide its 911 texting service for free to anyone with a compatible device using any carrier, regardless of whether or not they’re a subscriber. If you frequently venture off the grid, this service could be perfect for you. It may even be a must-have.