T-Mobile Launches ‘T-Satellite’ Powered by Starlink for D2D Satellite Services
The direct-to-device (D2D) satellite service, ‘T-Satellite,’ is the latest offering from T-Mobile, leveraging SpaceX’s Starlink constellation. This innovative service, now out of open beta, utilizes 650 cutting-edge low Earth orbit satellites to deliver coverage spanning the US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska, and Puerto Rico. It aims to eradicate connectivity gaps nationwide.
At present, the D2D capabilities of Starlink’s service are focused on text and location functionalities, with data services slated for introduction by October. Advanced features like voice and video services are set for future Starlink satellite iterations.
T-Mobile kickstarted the open beta phase back in February, extending invitations not just to its subscribers, but also to those of AT&T and Verizon. The service has already garnered over 1.8 million users, including clientele from competing firms.
Approximately 60 modern smartphones support this cutting-edge service, seamlessly transitioning eligible users to the satellite network in areas devoid of terrestrial coverage.
For a limited period, ‘T-Satellite’ is available for an extra $10 monthly, with a subsequent price rise to $15 expected. Moreover, the service is automatically bundled in select T-Mobile premium plans like Go5G Next and Go5G Business Next. Future plans indicate that AT&T and Verizon subscribers can access the service starting at $20 per month.
An enlightening infographic on T-Mobile’s website juxtaposes its satellite offering with that of competitors AT&T and Verizon, portraying them as playing catch-up. While AT&T customers are depicted as still awaiting significant progress in the satellite segment, Verizon users are illustrated as resorting to gimmicks to establish connectivity.
Earlier this year, Verizon debuted its complimentary satellite service via Skylo, a platform that collaborates with various satellite operators to furnish D2D services through unique technology. Additionally, Verizon has a partnership with AST SpaceMobile, which deployed five operational ‘BlueBird’ satellites last September.
Similar to Verizon, AT&T is pinning its hopes on AST, revealing recent positive outcomes from satellite trials with the said operator shortly post-T-Mobile’s milestone announcement. Despite this progress, a firm timeline for the commercial service launch is pending.
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