Starlink, the satellite network known for bringing internet access to remote areas, is now expanding its reach directly to your phone. Through a partnership between T-Mobile, SpaceX, and Starlink, a new satellite-to-cell service allows users to send and receive text messages even in areas without traditional network coverage.

In December 2024, T-Mobile launched a beta program for this satellite-powered messaging service, offering US customers early access at no extra cost. The program is still open for those who want to apply, making it easier than ever to stay connected-no cell towers required. It might be time to rethink your current phone plan. 

Read more: T-Mobile Opens Its Starlink Beta, Including to People With AT&T and Verizon

However, access is limited during the T-Mobile Starlink beta. If you're a T-Mobile customer living in the US, you must have an optimized phone, like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy Z Flip 6, iPhone 16 or Google Pixel 9. During the Super Bowl, T-Mobile announced that AT&T, Verizon and other phone carrier customers can also try out T-Mobile Starlink satellite service for free, for a limited time.

If you're interested in trying out the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service and don't know where to start, here's everything you need to know.

What exactly is the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service and how does it work?

In August 2022, during a live event, T-Mobile and SpaceX announced Coverage Above and Beyond, a plan for bringing cellphone connectivity everywhere in the US, even in the most remote regions. T-Mobile's wireless network would leverage Starlink's direct-to-cell satellites -- more than 300 of them -- to provide "near complete coverage" to all 500,000 square miles in the US that are not covered by cell towers, essentially eliminating dead zones.

If you're in an area without cell service, like Yosemite National Park or the Grand Canyon, your phone will automatically connect to the nearest T-Mobile Starlink satellite, acting like a floating cellphone tower, to give you service, as long as there's nothing obstructing the connection between your phone and the sky.

What can you do with the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service?

You can use the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service to send and receive text messages on your supported phone -- for free. That includes text messages to 911 in case of an emergency. Plans are in place to add support for picture messaging, voice calls, and data soon -- but for most users, it will come at a cost.

Who can use the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service?

Right now, you need to meet the following requirements if you want to use the Starlink satellite service on your phone:

• You must be a T-Mobile customer (open to other customers now, too). On T-Mobile's website, it says. "Anyone -- on any carrier -- can register to participate in the beta. We'll admit people on a rolling first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage everyone to sign up as soon as possible."
• You must have an optimized phone. According to T-Mobile, the following phones work with its Starlink satellite service: iPhone 14 and later, Google Pixel 9, Samsung Galaxy S23 and later, Galaxy Z Flip3 and Fold 3 and later, Motorola 2024 and later and more. You can find the full list here, which includes a few more Galaxy models.
• You must also be on the latest software update. T-Mobile says that your phone must be on the latest software to use T-Mobile Starlink.

You must also be accepted into the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service beta program. The next section will explain how to sign up.

How can I join the T-Mobile Starlink satellite service beta program?

If you meet the requirements listed in the previous section, go to T-Mobile's satellite phone service website and register with your full name, email and T-Mobile phone number. Once you've been verified, you'll receive confirmation that you're on the waitlist for the Starlink satellite service via email.

Capacity is limited, so not everyone will get to join during the beta launch, but if you have an "optimized" phone, meaning a newer phone, you have a better chance of getting accepted. You should receive a notification via email or text when you're accepted into the program. As the program leaves the beta stage, which is expected to happen in July, more people will be able to join.

Here's what else you should know about T-Mobile's Starlink satellite service

Since the satellite-to-cell service is still in beta and invitations are rolling out gradually, here are answers to some common questions you might have:

• When will the free beta end? T-Mobile plans to end the free beta in July.
• What will the price of the T-Mobile Starlink service be after the beta is finished? The service will continue to be free for users on the Go5G Next plan, but for every other T-Mobile customer, it will be $15 per month per line. If you signed up for the beta, you'll get an early adopter discount of $10 per month until February of next year.
• How much will it cost for Verizon, AT&T and other carrier users? While Verizon and AT&T customers can get T-Mobile Starlink text messaging for free during the beta trial, once the full service launches in July, it will be $20 per month per line.  
• Is there a data cap? That's unclear for now.