Starlink, T-Mobile target ‘Dead Zones’ with satellite-to-cell service

On By Littum

  • T-Mobile and Starlink announced a satellite-to-cell service to help eliminate “dead zones.”
  • The service provides connection in areas not covered with cellular networks.
  • T-Mobile Starlink will also be available to customers in other cell networks.

T-Mobile is targeted at the “Dead Zones” cell by offering satellite connection with Starlink to both iPhone and Android users.

The network used an ad under the Super Bowl on Sunday night to launch the beta version of the satellite-to-cell service, which will also be available to customers of competitors such as Verizon and AT&T.

CEO Mike Sievert said in a press release that T-Mobile Starlink will automatically connect to compatible devices without cellular coverage. “It’s a massive technical performance and an absolute game change for all wireless users … We officially put ‘no bars’ on notice,” he said.

Starlink, part of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, provides coverage from satellites, which means users will be able to send and receive text messages in areas not covered with mobile towers on the ground. About half a million square miles of the United States lack cell coverage – an area close to corresponding to two states the size of Texas.

Data and voice call coverage later follows, T-Mobile said.

The Starlink service will be free until July for a limited number of testers. Then T-Mobile customers on Go5G next plan will continue to have free service. Those on other plans will be charged $ 15 a month, reduced to $ 10 if they sign up by the end of February.

Customers on other networks are charged $ 20 a month.

Potential users can sign up here.

Mobile networks that supply similar satellite coverage in connection with Starlink include Rogers in Canada, Japan’s KDDI, Telstra and Optus in Australia, Salt in Switzerland and Ukraine’s Kyivstar.

Starlink traffic tripled in 2024 after launching in several countries, including Tchad, Mongolia and Argentina.

It is also offered on flights from airlines, including United, Air France and Qatar.

Elon Musk also donated free Starlink terminals to Los Angeles as the city fought for fire in January.

T-Mobile shares rose 4% in trading in New York Premarket. The share has risen more than 50% over the past 12 months and appreciates the company to $ 281 billion.