From www.zdnet.com

Satellite roving Earth
Getty Images/Just_Super

Slowly but surely, Starlink is growing into a leading broadband internet alternative. Its network of low-Earth orbit satellites is expected to ensure its users high-speed internet access, even in areas where traditional infrastructure such as cell towers can’t reach. Soon, that technology will provide service to your T-Mobile mobile device. 

Earlier this month, several T-Mobile Android device users shared on social media that they had received access to the carrier’s Starlink beta program. Now, an update to the T-Mobile website this week indicates that the beta will be rolling out to iOS device owners, too. 

Also: T-Mobile crowned the fastest mobile carrier – and it wasn’t even close

Following the release of iOS 18.3, the T-Mobile Starlink satellite support site was updated with the statement, “Apple iPhone: You will need to make sure that your device is on iOS 18.3 or newer,” confirming a Bloomberg report that revealed Apple has secretly been working with T-Mobile and Starlink to bring the beta to iPhone software. 

Before this update, PCMag reported that as of Jan. 14, the same T-Mobile support document stated that the beta would only be supported by “the Galaxy Z Flip 6 5GGalaxy Z Fold 6 5GGalaxy S24 5GGalaxy S24 Plus 5G, and Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G,” making this new update a major win for iOS users. 

The connectivity program aims to eliminate dead zones by leveraging Starlink’s 300 direct‑to‑cell satellites to provide coverage for 500,000 square miles of land in the US that are not covered by cell towers, according to T-Mobile. 

Also: Installing iOS 18.3? Here are the 3 biggest features you should try out first

Starlink will only support texting for now, but T-Mobile has said that the service will eventually expand to browsing and voice. The free beta provides users with high-speed internet connectivity in challenging-to-access areas such as rural locations, concerts, and even airplanes.

On a recent 12-hour flight, I had the chance to experience Starlink in-flight Wi-Fi and was fascinated by how stable and fast the connection was. It provided me with high-speed, reliable connectivity that did not waver throughout the flight, with speeds comparable to those I experienced at home. 

Unlike connecting to a satellite on your iPhone through the iOS emergency messaging option, the Starlink experience is more seamless. You can simply use your phone as you normally would, as Starlink’s service overtakes your existing cellular connection.

Also: Installing iOS 18.3? Here are the 3 biggest features you should try out first

The beta program is free for all T-Mobile postpaid voice customers with a compatible device. When announced last month, the company said it would work with “most modern mobile phones,” with a full list of compatible devices expected to come closer to the beta release. However, now that the beta has begun rolling out, there still is no list published. First responder agencies and individuals are being given priority access to the beta.

All participants will be asked to give feedback before the service is officially rolled out to all customers, which will likely be later this year, according to the company. To register, fill out this form with your name, email, and phone number. You’ll receive a notification if and when your application is accepted.

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The post T-Mobile users can now try Starlink’s satellite service for free – here’s how to qualify first appeared on www.zdnet.com

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