Starlink’s cell phone service, often referred to as Direct to Cell, is a satellite-based connectivity solution designed to provide mobile coverage in areas where traditional cell towers don’t reach. It’s a collaboration between SpaceX’s Starlink and various mobile carriers, with T-Mobile being the primary partner in the U.S. The service uses Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites to connect directly to standard LTE smartphones, no special hardware or apps required, as long as the phone is compatible and you’ve got a clear view of the sky.
Right now, the service is in a beta phase, which started in early 2025 after FCC approval in late 2024. It’s focused on text messaging, including SMS and emergency services like texting 911, covering remote areas across the continental U.S., Puerto Rico, and parts of Alaska. The beta is free for testers, open to T-Mobile customers and even those on rival carriers like AT&T or Verizon, provided they have an unlocked, compatible phone—think recent models like iPhone 14 or later, Samsung Galaxy S21 or newer, or Google Pixel 9. T-Mobile’s aiming for a full launch in July 2025, when it’ll expand to include picture messaging, voice calls, and data services, though speeds will likely be modest (think 2-18 Mbps, not 5G-level).
The big draw is eliminating dead zones—Starlink claims it can cover 500,000 square miles of the U.S. that lack terrestrial service. Your phone automatically switches to the satellite network (branded “T-Mobile SpaceX” on your screen) when you’re out of regular coverage, assuming you’re outdoors with minimal obstructions like trees or mountains. After the beta, pricing kicks in: free on T-Mobile’s premium Go5G Next plan, $10-15/month for other T-Mobile plans (with an early adopter discount if you sign up before March 1), and $20/month for non-T-Mobile users.
There are limitations. It’s not a replacement for traditional cellular—bandwidth is limited, so don’t expect streaming Netflix in the wilderness. Texting can take seconds to minutes depending on satellite availability, and indoor use is spotty since it’s designed for open skies. Some users on X have griped about connectivity issues, like texts not sending or conflicts with Wi-Fi calling, but that’s par for the course with a beta. Starlink’s launched over 400 Direct to Cell satellites so far, with plans for thousands more to boost reliability and add features like global roaming or IoT connectivity.
It’s a game-changer for rural areas, hikers, or first responders, but it’s not flawless yet. If you’re in Bismarck, ND, it could be handy for those times you’re out in the sticks—just make sure your phone’s on the supported list and you’re not expecting instant replies.
