SpaceX and T-Mobile announced during the Super Bowl that users could access the internet provided by Starlink satellites for free. The companies confirmed that this access would be part of a beta period, with charges beginning in July.
After that, users will need to pay for the service, which will be available to those with eSim-enabled smartphones.
This free access will not be limited to T-Mobile users, as non-T-Mobile users can also participate in the trial by signing up on a T-Mobile form. "The Direct to Cell technology connects your phone to satellites in space, acting like a cellphone tower almost anywhere you can see the sky," a statement on the T-Mobile website explained.
Starlink has 451 satellites in orbit for Direct to Cell, enabling phones to connect and maintain a broadband connection when cell service is unavailable. This ensures that users in the US will have a constant connection, even in areas with no wireless coverage. Currently, around 500,000 square miles in the US lack coverage from any wireless provider, which T-Mobile views as a major benefit of the service.
During the beta phase, services will be limited to text messaging only through the phone’s native messaging app. However, once the paid phase begins, the service will include picture messaging, data services, and voice calling.
Starting in July, the service will be included for free with the Go5G Next plan, while other plans will cost $15 per month. Early testers not on the free plan will receive a $5 discount. For Verizon, AT&T, and other customers, Starlink will be available through T-Mobile for $20 per month after the beta period ends.
