T-Mobile is expanding its satellite-powered texting service, T‑Satellite, to work on a much wider range of phones—even older ones you might already own. Until recently, only the latest flagships could get the green light for this feature. But thanks to a change in FCC policy, that’s about to go away.
According to PhoneArena, the Federal Communications Commission has approved T‑Mobile’s request to bypass certain bureaucratic hurdles. In plain English: any phone that’s already approved for regular cell service can now also use satellites in emergencies or when cell service lies flat.
That means many past-year models from Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola, Xiaomi, Sony, OnePlus (and even T‑Mobile’s own REVVL phones) can now jump onto Starlink satellites without waiting for extra approvals.
What does that mean for you? Once the waiver takes effect, older-but-still-smart devices (like iPhones going back to the 13 series or Galaxy phones as old as the S21) will get satellite messaging support; without needing extra hardware, software patches, or carrier updates. T‑Mobile and SpaceX championed this move, arguing that the old red tape was pointless and delaying access to what can be, in serious situations, a life-saving service.
T‑Satellite officially becomes available July 23, meaning this summer, millions more smartphones can tap into satellite connectivity. For now, only texts are supported, but data (including app use) arrives October 1. T‑Mobile customers on select plans (“Experience Beyond” or Go5G Next) get the feature at no extra cost; others, including customers from AT&T and Verizon, can add it for about $10/month.
This move comes at a time when nearly 2 million people are already signed up for the beta, with a surprising number coming from rival carriers.
In everyday life, this simply means your current phone might get a text feature that works even when cell towers don’t—no upgrades, no fuss. Ideal for hikers, travelers, or anyone whose signal drops more than once a week.
Source: PhoneArena
