What is Starlink?
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX (yes, that guy– you may know him from other stuff recently). The program consists of thousands of small satellites orbiting Earth to deliver high-speed internet access globally. The primary goal of Starlink is to bring internet to remote regions and improve connectivity in cities with coverage issues.
Standard Starlink Service
The standard Starlink service is designed for users who require reliable internet connectivity. Here are the details:
- Starlink is currently available for beta in numerous countries, with coverage expanding regularly.
- Speed: Users can expect speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 150 Mbps, with latency between 20 ms to 40 ms.
Starlink and Wireless Services: Current Interaction
Currently, Starlink operates independently but complements traditional wireless services like AT&T and Verizon.
- Starlink’s satellite network enables internet access in regions where other carrier infrastructure may be lacking or non-existent. This helps coverage in rural and remote areas.
- Starlink can enhance connectivity in urban areas by providing an additional layer of internet service, especially in places with high user density.
- In locations where existing carriers provide service, Starlink can serve as a backup option, providing additional internet access during outages or network congestion.
- High-speed internet from Starlink can integrate with wireless services to offer seamless connectivity. Users may switch between satellite and existing carrier networks based on availability and performance.
Starlink is now in Beta testing until July 2025. Here’s a great video on the Starlink basics from Mobile Internet Resource Center:
Updated Pricing
The pricing from Starlink looks like this:
- Free for all users in Starlink Beta testing until July 2025.
- The beta is free for all. When T-Satellite launches in July, it will be included with the Experience Beyond and Go5G Next plans. For a limited time, when consumer users sign up for Experience More, they will get free satellite service through the end of the year
- For other Consumer Users on T-Mobile, they will start billing in July 2025 at $10 per device per month (limited time) will likely increase to $15 per month. Some eligible plans will include Starlink in the T-Mobile Plan.
- All other Consumer users, including Verizon and AT&T customers, can get it for a limited time for $10/mo. (savings of $5/mo)
- Corporate users on other carriers (AT&T, Verizon) will start billing in July 2025. Pricing was published at $10-$20 per user per month but remains TBD .
- Currently, Starlink is only available for text messages. Voice and data to follow at a later date (discussed above in the video).
Next Steps
We have been talking with our customers about Starlink and will continue to get information from users on Beta testing. Please let us know how we can help assist.
You can sign up for the T-Mobile Starlink beta here: https://www.t-mobile.com/coverage/satellite-phone-service:
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