T-Mobile launches T-Satellite, commercial texting to ordinary phones via Starlink direct-to-cell satellites

SpaceX/Starlink

T-Mobile launched T-Satellite on July 23, offering commercial satellite texting to ordinary phones via 657+ Starlink direct-to-cell satellites. The service was free on T-Mobile's top plan and $10/month otherwise; about 1.8 million people had joined the beta, with broadband data service scheduled for October.

• Launch date: July 23, 2025.
• Service: texting to any smartphone in coverage areas, including AT&T and Verizon users.
• Pricing: free on T-Mobile Experience Beyond plan ($17/month for 3 lines); $10/month for other subscribers.
• Beta users: ~1.8 million; sent over 1 million messages during testing (February–July).