T-Mobile has announced a major step forward for its satellite partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink, bringing expanded app support and broader device compatibility to its T-Satellite service. After debuting with basic messaging, T-Satellite now enables popular apps like WhatsApp, Google Maps, AllTrails, and AccuWeather to function in areas far beyond the reach of cellular towers.
The development means users can stay connected for voice calls, video chats, navigation, weather updates, and even social media sharing as long as they have a clear view of the sky.
From Text Messaging to Full App Support
Initially, T-Satellite launched in July with support limited to SMS, MMS, and text-to-911. Despite the narrow focus, the feature quickly proved its value, with real-world rescues credited to the service. “We’ve heard story after story of 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,” said Mike Katz, President of Marketing, Innovation, and Experience at T-Mobile.
Now, Katz says the expansion takes things “up a notch,” giving customers access to the apps they depend on most in remote areas. WhatsApp, in particular, is now capable of supporting live voice and video calls over satellite, including group chats.
More Phones Now Supported
Alongside new app functionality, T-Mobile is rolling out support to a wider array of devices. What began with Google’s Pixel 10 and the iPhone 13–17 is expanding to 17 additional models, including Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and S25 lineups, the Galaxy Z Flip6 and Z Fold6, Motorola’s latest 5G devices, and the iPhone SE (third generation). In total, 42 phone models are now compatible with T-Satellite.
In Canada, Rogers has partnered with SpaceX to bring satellite-to-phone coverage to rural and remote parts of the country, where cellular access is still unreliable. The service is still limited like it was in the U.S., but the two companies are working together to ensure Canadians will soon benefit from the same kind of off-grid connectivity that T-Satellite is now offering in the U.S.
