T-Mobile has sent out a large number of invites for their satellite communication beta program, in partnership with Starling. Particularly, to Pixel 9 series owners are getting the feature, as confirmed by many Reddit users who them via text message. If you got it too, you are now part of the Starlink beta, and can send texts via satellite from almost anywhere in the world.
Pixels, iPhones, and Galaxy phones eligible for satellite texting
T-Mobile has long worked with Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, to bring Direct-to-cell communication to the world. Right now, it’s in a testing phase and only select users are being called on to try it out.
The Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL are the main devices receiving invites, although T-Mobile previously listed some Samsung devices as eligible. iPhone users got their invitation days ago, with the requirement being the new iOS 18.3 update.
T-Mobile: Great news! You’re in the T-Mobile Starlink beta. You can now stay connected with texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. Make sure your phone’s software is updated to the latest version. Questions? Please visit t-mo.co/satellite01.
T-Mobile text message to customers
The Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and all Galaxy S24 models were among them, as long as they were running Android 15 or higher software versions. That list has since been removed and led many to think they’re no longer supported.
On the contrary, Droid Life reporter, Kellen, mentioned that after switching from a Pixel 9 Pro to a Galaxy S25 Ultra, their beta access carried over, suggesting that Samsung devices may still be eligible afterall. For now, the service supports texting, location sharing, and 911 emergency messages through Starlink’s satellites. Voice and data support aren’t available, but they’re planned for the future.
Send texts with a view of the sky
You won’t be downloading any extra apps to use T-Mobile’s satellite messaging feature, since it integrates directly with your phone’s messaging system. But you do need to be outside, as it only works in outdoor locations with a clear view of the sky. Also, it’s available exclusively in the USA at the moment. A wider rollout should happen after beta testing has ended.
As reported by one user, you can enjoy the feature without needing to hold the phone up. However, there aren’t enough Starlink satellites with cellular capability in orbit, so they’re spread out. When your phone connects to one, you can send and receive messages.
But once that satellite moves out of range, there might not be another one immediately available. There will be temporary disconnections until another satellite comes into position.
Also, the service uses 4G Band 25, which is a frequency band used for 4G LTE communication. Most phones that support 4G should be compatible with this band and connect to the satellite network once it’s publicly available.
Join T-Mobile satellite beta program
To sign up for the T-Mobile Starlink beta, you need a compatible device as aforementioned, and a postpaid T-Mobile voice plan. Next, visit the registration page and make sure your phone is updated. They haven’t specified which operating system is needed specifically, nor shared a list of eligible devices. But you should do it to be on the safe side.
Then enter your details, including your name, email, and phone number, into the provided form. T-Mobile will send you a one-time PIN you’ll use to verify the details before submitting your registration.
