Mobile connectivity is an essential part of our daily lives, and losing mobile reception can be incredibly frustrating. Whether you need to check directions on Google Maps, send a message via WhatsApp, or simply share a stunning view on Instagram, being stranded with zero signal on your smartphone limits your capabilities. Fortunately, satellite services like Starlink provide a solution, and recently, T-Mobile has taken a bold step by offering its services for free in the US for compatible smartphones.
Table of Contents
- What is Starlink and how does it work?
- Starlink on phones: how does T-Mobile’s new mobile service work?
- Starlink on iPhone: how do you get it?
- Starlink Mini: what is Starlink’s backpack-friendly version?
- Subaru Starlink: what is it?
- Starlink price: what’s the monthly cost for Starlink?
T-Mobile has partnered with SpaceX, launching the first space-based mobile network in the US, designed to deliver cell phone service to remote areas through satellites. This innovative service promises to revolutionize connectivity for users in rural locations, effectively bridging the gap where traditional cellular networks falter. A beta trial is currently in progress, with a full rollout scheduled for July this year. What sets this initiative apart is that it is not just available to T-Mobile customers but also to users of AT&T and Verizon, as long as their devices support an eSIM.
What is Starlink and how does it work?
- Starlink is a subsidiary: of Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
- It operates a constellation: of small internet satellites.
- Direct-to-cell satellites: function like cell towers in space.
Starlink, as a subsidiary of SpaceX, manages thousands of small satellites that have been launched into orbit since 2019. These satellites primarily aim to deliver high-speed internet to users equipped with compatible antennas. Unlike conventional satellite internet, Starlink’s satellites operate in low-Earth orbit, which significantly reduces lag or latency as data travels between a user’s device and the satellite. This setup provides global coverage, especially beneficial for remote areas.
In early 2022, SpaceX began launching satellites equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities. With built-in modems that mimic cellphone towers, these satellites connect directly to smartphones without requiring special hardware. As a result, any phone with LTE compatibility can access Starlink’s groundbreaking network from virtually anywhere under the sky.
Starlink on phones: how does T-Mobile’s new mobile service work?
- T-Mobile’s Starlink service: is powered by SpaceX satellites.
- Free public beta: testing launched in February.
- Paid subscriptions: available from July for T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon users.
T-Mobile’s Starlink service utilizes satellites capable of direct-to-cell connectivity. Currently, T-Mobile has launched 451 satellites, which function like terrestrial cell towers. Users in areas devoid of regular cellular service can automatically connect to the Starlink satellites, allowing communication over expansive regions previously considered dead zones. T-Mobile claims over 500,000 square miles in the US lacks standard carrier coverage, now transformed by this revolutionary service with access beginning during the ongoing public beta testing initiated at the Super Bowl.
Starlink on iPhone: how do you get it?
- T-Mobile Starlink works: on most modern smartphones.
- Supported models include: Apple iPhone 14 and later.
- iPhones require: iOS 18.3 to access Starlink.
To access Starlink service on an iPhone, users must register for the T-Mobile beta test. This service is compatible with the iPhone 14 series, including Plus, Pro, and Pro Max models. Users need to ensure they have iOS version 18.3 to establish a connection with T-Mobile’s network settings. Once registered, participants can utilize the Starlink satellites in areas where standard cell signals are absent.
Starlink Mini: what is Starlink’s backpack-friendly version?
- Starlink Mini is a compact antenna: kit designed for portability.
- The kit costs: $499 / £399 / AU$599 up-front.
- It is different from: T-Mobile’s Starlink service.
The Starlink Mini is a portable antenna kit that connects to SpaceX satellites, allowing users to access high-speed internet almost anywhere with a clear view of the sky. Unlike T-Mobile’s service, which enables smartphones to connect directly to satellites, the Starlink Mini setup includes a Wi-Fi router that can support multiple devices simultaneously. For those always on the move, the compact design and ease of setup make it a formidable option for accessing satellite connectivity.
Subaru Starlink: what is it?
- Subaru Starlink is a suite: of connected in-car services.
- It is completely separate: from SpaceX’s Starlink system.
- Connectivity is via: standard cellular networks.
Despite the name similarity, Subaru Starlink refers to a package of connected services available in most new Subaru vehicles, offering safety and remote access features. However, this system relies solely on traditional cellular networks, meaning it does not function in areas where there are no cell towers available.
Starlink price: what’s the monthly cost for Starlink?
- T-Mobile’s Starlink service starts: at $15 per month.
- Other carrier users pay: $20 a month.
- Starlink Mini Roam subscription: starts at $50 / £50 / AU$80 per month.
The pricing structure for Starlink varies depending on the service type. When T-Mobile Starlink becomes publicly available in July, T-Mobile customers can access it for $15 a month. For those who sign up during beta testing, an Early Adopter Discount brings it down to $10 a month. Users on other wireless networks can utilize the service for $20 a month.
For those looking to access the internet through a Starlink antenna, the Starlink Mini kit has an upfront cost of $499, in addition to a monthly data plan ranging from $50 for 50GB to $165 for unlimited data.
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