Cell phone dead zones in the U.S. took another step toward oblivion yesterday. T-Mobile and Starlink are now beta-testing their direct-to-cell satellite texting capability for iPhones.
The T-Mobile Starlink system uses some 300 Starlink satellites to provide coverage across parts of North America that have historically been empty of cell signals. Essentially, the Starlink satellites function as mobile, orbiting cell towers.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the partnership in November of last year, and T-Mobile announced shortly thereafter that iPhone-using customers could register for the test. Earlier in the fall, the FCC had granted temporary approval for Starlink and T-Mobile to put the system into action when parts of Western North Carolina lost cell signal during Hurricane Helene.
According to T-Mobile’s website, voice and data capability will soon follow. The direct-to-cell beta-test capability rolled out with the iOS 18.3 software update.
It’s big news for the adventure world. Currently, outdoor aficionados who want to stay in contact via their phones have to use third-party satellite messaging devices or dedicated satellite phones. One less gadget to carry around is always a good thing, assuming you are the type of person who likes to stay in contact.
While the initial Beta test is only taking place in the U.S., it’s just a matter of time before the program expands to other countries.
Of course, there is a downside. The increasing number of Starlink satellites streaking across the night sky is a serious bother for astronomers and scientists attempting to learn more about our cosmos.
