Anyone Can Try Sending Satellite Texts for Free Now, Thanks to T-Mobile and Starlink

Even though cellular coverage feels nearly universal, there are still areas where getting a signal is impossible. But with the T-Mobile Starlink partnership, you can try out a free beta trial of a satellite texting service—no matter what carrier you are using.

The Free Beta Trial Lasts Until July

Announced during a Super Bowl commercial, you can sign up for the beta test through T-Mobile’s site. You will need to provide a name, email address, and phone number. Beta testers will be admitted on a rolling basis over the coming months.

Here’s a list of smartphones compatible with the service:

• Apple iPhone 14 and later (including Plus, Pro & Pro Max)
• Google Pixel 9 (including Pro, Pro Fold, & Pro XL)
• Motorola 2024 and later (including razr, razr+, edge and g series)
• Samsung Galaxy A14, A15, A16, A35, A53, A54
• Samsung Galaxy S21 and later (including Plus, Ultra and Fan Edition)
• Samsung Galaxy X Cover6 Pro
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 and later
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 and later
• REVVL 7 (including Pro)

Once admitted into the beta program, you can use it for free until July. Unlike other satellite texting services, there’s nothing you need to do to connect. When no other service is available, the phone will automatically connect to T-Mobile Starlink. You will see the network name “T-Mobile SpaceX” on your phone.

After the trial period ends, the service will be included on T-Mobile’s Go5G Next Plan. Other T-Mobile subscribers can add it for $15 per month while Verizon and AT&T customers can use the service for $20 per month after the trial period ends.

T-Mobile has plans to provide more than just satellite texting with data and voice calls through Starlink being planned for 2026.

Is Satellite Coverage the Next Frontier for Smartphones?

Satellite coverage works differently than the traditional cell signal. To connect, you need to be outdoors with a clear view of the sky. While urban areas generally have strong cell coverage, vast portions of the U.S. still struggle with reliable service.

Having a satellite backup is invaluable for outdoor enthusiasts, frequent travelers, and those in disaster-prone areas where cell towers may go down for extended periods.

The T-Mobile Starlink feature looks to be much easier to use compared to other hardware-based devices like the HMD OffGrid that was unveiled in early 2025. Not having to manually connect to the satellite is a big time saver.