Starlink and T-Mobile have opened beta testing of the service, but only for select Samsung Galaxy phones.
Starlink Direct to Cell Beta Just Launched – Who Can Join, and How to Register
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Former NASA engineer Mark Rober demonstrates text messaging capabilities via Starlink Direct to Cell | Image by T-Mobile
Starlink and T-Mobile have opened the free beta for Direct to Cell capabilities to customers who signed up last month and have a compatible phone. Customers who registered in December received text messages informing them that they’ve been entered into the beta and can begin sending text messages via satellite signal.
Starlink has stated in the past that Direct to Cell will be compatible with most modern phones with 4G capability without needing any upgrades or alterations. However, this initial beta run is only compatible with a handful of Samsung phones. According to T-Mobile, this list includes:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S24 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G
The companies didn’t disclose why only these five models are part of the initial beta, but it’s likely because the phones are the newest models and have powerful enough antennas to connect to the Starlink DTC satellite constellation, which is still being built out.
T-Mobile is still allowing customers to sign up for the beta, so if you have one of these phone models, you have a good chance of being accepted.
Starlink has already activated Direct to Cell for users impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, which have caused widespread outages. Customers in the area could send text messages and contact emergency services.
How the Direct to Cell beta works
If you’ve received the text message indicating that you’re in the beta, you won’t need to take any other actions to start using it. However, it will only work if you’re in an area that doesn’t have local or roaming cell service. So, if you really want to try using satellite service, you’ll need to go well out of your way since there’s no way to toggle on satellite connectivity while other cellular options are available.
“T-Mobile Starlink currently supports sending and receiving text messages, location sharing, and texting 911 emergency services while connected to Starlink's satellites,” according to T-Mobile.
You’ll know you’re connected to Direct to Cell when your device displays “T-Mobile SpaceX” on the top left side of your screen.
T-Mobile disclosed that text messages sent via Direct to Cell may take longer than usual to send. You also won’t be able to send images or videos through text messages.
Customers in emergency situations can also use the service to text 911 for assistance. The service will automatically share your location with first responders so they can quickly locate you. Additionally, you can share your location with other recipients using Google Messages’ location-sharing feature.
What’s Next for Direct to Cell?
About 400 Starlink DTC satellites are in low earth orbit, much closer to the planet than regular Starlink satellites for internet. These satellites can act as cell phone towers in space. Starlink has petitioned the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow up to 7,500 DTC satellites, making it easier for more phones to connect. As more satellites are launched, more phone models will likely be allowed into the beta.
Starlink and T-Mobile will also need more satellites if they plan to offer voice, data, and IoT capabilities through Direct to Cell. Starlink aims to have voice and data ready for testing by the end of 2025.
Pricing for Direct to Cell when it officially launches for all T-Mobile customers has not been announced yet.
