Starlink is gradually but definitely rising to be a top broadband internet substitute. Its low Earth orbit satellite network guarantees its customers, even in places where conventional infrastructure like cell towers cannot reach, fast internet access. Now that technology can serve your mobile gadget.
Using Starlink’s 300 direct-to-cell satellites to reach 500,000 square miles of US territory not served by cell towers, T-Mobile began enrollment for a T-Mobile Starlink beta program on Monday hoping to eradicate dead zones.
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Starlink will only allow texting at launch, scheduled for early 2025; T-Mobile notes that the service will later be expanded to Internet and voice. Users of the free beta will have fast internet connection in difficult-to-reach locales such rural areas, concerts, even aircraft.
I was enthralled with the quality of the Starlink in-flight Wi-Fi on a recent 12-hour journey. With speeds like those I know at home, it gave me fast, dependable connectivity that did not change over the flight.
The Starlink experience is smooth unlike when connecting to a satellite on your iPhone via the iOS emergency message option. You keep using your phone like you usually would, only your main goal is to savor the better connection.
Coming early next year, the beta program offers free access to any T-Mobile postpaid voice users with a suitable handset. T-Mobile believes it will function with “most modern mobile phones,” even though it does not yet name all optimized handsets — a list is scheduled to appear closer to the beta release. Priority access to the beta is being provided first responder agencies and people.
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The business says all participants will be invited to provide comments before it is given out to all consumers commercially, most likely some time in 2025. To register, complete this form with your phone number, name, and email. Should you be admitted, you will be notified.
