SpaceX, the aerospace company led by Elon Musk, has unveiled plans to provide T-Mobile customers with direct access to its Starlink satellite network, aiming to eliminate cellular dead zones across the United States. Musk announced this initiative during an event at SpaceX’s Starbase facility in Texas, emphasizing the substantial impact it could have on connectivity.
In many parts of the U.S., there are vast areas, equivalent to over half a million square miles, where traditional cell towers cannot provide coverage. These so-called “dead zones” are often due to challenging terrain or land-use restrictions. While satellite phones have been an option for communication in these areas, they are expensive and not practical for everyday use.
T-Mobile Clients will not have to deal with “dead zones” anymore since they’ll have access to Starlink’s Satellite network. (Image: Starlink Mobility)
Coverage Above and Beyond
Starting in 2023, T-Mobile intends to address this issue through its “Coverage Above and Beyond” initiative, in partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink. This collaboration will utilize Starlink’s satellite network to offer nearly complete coverage across the nation, including remote areas, Hawaii, parts of Alaska, Puerto Rico, and territorial waters. Importantly, it will be compatible with most existing smartphones on T-Mobile’s network, eliminating the need for customers to purchase new equipment.
T-Mobile’s CEO, Mike Sievert, likened the initiative to placing a cellular tower in the sky, highlighting that smartphones will seamlessly connect to the satellite network without users noticing a significant difference. The service will be free with T-Mobile’s popular plans, with potential charges for lower-cost plans that opt to include it – still more affordable than traditional satellite services.
Beta Test to Start Late 2023
The network is expected to undergo a beta launch by the end of 2023, initially supporting text messaging, with plans to introduce voice and data capabilities in the future. However, SpaceX will need to deploy its larger Starlink Version 2 satellites, set to launch in 2023, for this network to function. This may necessitate alternative launch methods if SpaceX’s Starship development faces delays.
To make the system work effectively, SpaceX is also developing advanced antennas to be attached to the satellites, which will need to capture signals from cellphones traveling over long distances at high speeds.
In summary, the partnership between SpaceX and T-Mobile aims to revolutionize connectivity by offering extensive coverage through Starlink satellites, potentially eliminating cellular dead zones in the U.S. and beyond, with an ultimate vision of global expansion and universal access to connectivity.