T-Mobile Expands Satellite Service to Popular Apps
T-Mobile has expanded its satellite-to-cell service to several popular apps in the US, allowing users to stay connected without cellular coverage. The Starlink-powered “T-Satellite” service now supports WhatsApp, Google Maps, X, AccuWeather, and T-Mobile’s customer service app T-Life, alongside AllTrails, CalTopo, and onX outdoor exploration apps, reports 24brussels.
T-Satellite is available at no extra cost for most T-Mobile subscriber plans or can be purchased for $10 a month. Users with eligible devices will connect to the satellite network automatically when cellular or Wi-Fi is unavailable. Supported apps will provide only critical content rather than “full data-heavy experiences” over the satellite connection, as stated by T-Mobile.
WhatsApp connectivity enables users to send messages, voice notes, and images, while also supporting voice and video calls in group chats. The service for X allows posting text, photos, GIFs, or videos, and browsing feeds with the ability to control the loading of high-resolution media to conserve data.
The service currently connects to native apps on select iPhone, Pixel, and Samsung models, including Google Messages, Apple Music, Fitness, Maps, and Weather apps. The expansion to third-party apps marks a significant milestone for T-Satellite, which initially supported only text messaging and location-sharing when it launched in July.
