T-Mobile has officially opened up its T-Satellite service, a satellite communication service, to all users across the nation. After successful testing with up to 30,000 daily active users and a total of 2 million trial users during the testing phase, T-Mobile has now made T-Satellite available to everyone.
One interesting observation from the testing phase was that three times more messages were received on T-Satellite than were actually sent. T-Satellite utilizes over 650 low-Earth orbit satellites to function as cell towers, making it the largest satellite-to-mobile constellation in operation today.
Compatible with over 60 phone models, including both Android and iOS devices, T-Satellite offers text messaging service without the need for any additional apps. The service automatically connects when in range, indicated by a "SAT" icon on the device. In cases where there may be brief interruptions in service due to satellite movement, the phone will continue attempting to send the message until successful.
With inclusion in T-Mobile's Experience Beyond and Go5G plans, as well as availability for Experience More customers from the beta phase, users on other plans can opt for satellite support at an additional $10 per month. For a limited time, non-customers can also access T-Satellite for the same price. Currently covering the continental US, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and certain parts of Southern Alaska, T-Satellite is expanding its coverage area gradually.
