T-Mobile expands T-Satellite with Starlink to power apps
T-Mobile announced a major expansion of its T-Satellite service with Starlink, extending satellite-powered data connectivity to dozens more smartphone applications, including customers in Puerto Rico.
The expansion comes just two months after T-Satellite’s commercial debut, which began with basic messaging and text-to-911. Customers can now use apps such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, AccuWeather, AllTrails and X in areas where traditional coverage does not reach.
“The response from the first two months of T-Satellite commercial service has blown us away,” said Mike Katz, president of marketing, innovation and experience at T-Mobile. “We started with just text messaging and text-to-911, and those capabilities alone have proven to be invaluable for wireless users. We’ve heard story after story how T-Satellite is helping people in life-saving situations… Now we’re taking it up a notch and bringing essential phone apps and services into the mix — giving people access to the apps they need most, in places they’ve never had a signal before.”
T-Mobile is one of three leading carriers in Puerto Rico, competing with Liberty Mobile Puerto Rico and Claro Puerto Rico.
Through a network of more than 650 Starlink Direct to Cell satellites, T-Satellite enables WhatsApp voice and video calls, voice notes and social updates in areas without cellular coverage.
In addition to WhatsApp, optimized apps include AllTrails for outdoor use, AccuWeather for local forecasts, CalTopo for custom mapping, onX for outdoor sports and X for social media. Native apps such as Google Messages, Pixel Weather, Samsung Weather, Find Hub and Apple Music also now integrate with T-Satellite.
The company said its T-Life customer app has been upgraded with satellite support to help users locate compatible apps, share locations by SMS and chat live with support.
Business customers also gain new tools, including Dialpad, an artificial intelligence communications platform; Florian, an incident command system for first responders and industries such as hospitality and logistics; MultiLine, which provides secure communications for regulated industries; and T-Mobile Direct Connect, which supports push-to-X messaging with pictures, video and emergency alerts.
Using T-Satellite-ready apps requires no special settings. Devices automatically connect to the satellite network when cellular signals are unavailable. Most satellite-capable smartphones running the latest operating systems are already compatible, with more being added.
T-Mobile said the service is included at no extra cost in its top plans, while customers of other carriers can add it for $10 per month. Although data speeds are limited compared with 5G, the company said the ability to stay connected in remote or emergency situations represents “a game-changer for safety, peace of mind and the freedom to stay connected virtually anywhere.”
