T-Mobile has now made it possible for Samsung and Apple phones to send texts using Starlink satellites. Right now, this service is just for texting, but soon, it might include calls and internet too.
Starlink, run by SpaceX, uses a bunch of satellites to give internet service all over the world. Elon Musk, the head of SpaceX, shared on social media that there’s a big upgrade coming for Starlink that could help both Samsung and Apple users.
T-Mobile has already tested this texting feature on Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and Z Fold 6 phones. Also, Apple is trying out this new texting option with a few iPhones to see how it works compared to their system.
In his social media update, Musk mentioned that Starlink can handle sending pictures, music, and podcasts in good quality. However, T-Mobile isn’t offering these extras to Samsung or Apple just yet.
T-Mobile plans to make this service available on more phone types and add more functions. Musk’s recent update suggests that we’ll see all of Starlink’s potential, but it won’t happen all at once.
Looking ahead, Musk talked about plans to add video support in medium quality with the next set of Starlink updates. This step forward matches SpaceX’s goal to change how we communicate worldwide using satellites.
Medium resolution images, music & audio podcasts should work with the current generation Starlink direct-to-phone constellation.
Next generation constellation will do medium resolution video. https://t.co/yfDPbkgSJH
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 29, 2025
