Satellite-connected smartphones are still in their infancy, but that isn’t stopping T-Mobile from developing new features and capabilities. If you’ve tried T-Mobile’s satellite service but wish it worked with more apps, we have good news. Those going off-grid can now use T-Satellite to access data on several essential apps.
For those unaware, T-Mobile officially announced this fancy new tech during the Super Bowl, but it didn’t go live for all users until this summer. Now that it’s here, we’re starting to see it take shape with added capabilities.
Today, in a joint statement with Starlink, T-Mobile revealed that its service can do a lot more than make emergency phone calls. Now, using satellite connectivity from more than 650+ Starlink direct to satellites, you can access apps like Google Maps, AllTrails, WhatsApp, AccuWeather, and more, getting vital information when you need it most.
Which Apps Work With T-Satellite?
Since earlier this summer, T-Mobile has slowly expanded its capabilities, at least for iPhone owners. Recently, the company added apps like the iPhone Compass, Fitness, Maps, Messages, Music, and Weather to its core list. Essentially, those with an iPhone can use a satellite to play music, shoot off a text message, and more.
As promised, here are a few more apps you can access on iPhone or Android, as long as you have a supported device.
- WhatsApp (voice and video calling)
- AllTrails
- OnX
- AccuWeather
- Google Maps
- T-Life
- X (Formerly Twitter)
- CalTopo
Additionally, Satellite app data for businesses continues to expand and supports apps like Dialpad, FLORIAN, T-Mobile Direct Connect, and MultiLine, with more on the way.
T-Mobile said in a press release, “The response from the first two months of T-Satellite commercial service has blown us away. We started with just text messaging and text-to-911, and those capabilities alone have proven invaluable for wireless users. We’ve heard story after story how T-Satellite is helping people in life-saving situations, including a Girl Scout who fell into a canyon deep in the California wilderness and was rescued just hours later. Now we’re taking it up a notch and bringing essential phone apps and services into the mix—giving people access to the apps they need most, in places they’ve never had a signal before.”
Remember that while many of these apps can access satellites for service, things are still limited. For example, iPhone or Android users can make 911 calls, regular calls, send a text message, share their location, and use map services like Google or Apple Maps. However, if you want to do something like a video chat, that’s limited to WhatsApp for now.
In closing, T-Mobile continues to offer satellite service at no additional charge, while other carriers are asking upwards of $10 per month. That said, I have a feeling it won’t be free for long. We’ll have to wait and see.
Source: T-Mobile
