What Phone Do I Need To Use T-Mobile Starlink?

T-Mobile Starlink’s direct-to-cell service has a July launch date, but customers, even those of different carriers like AT&T and Verizon, can sign up for the free beta. Whether or not you can take advantage of the service, which will allow you to send text messages when out of cellular range, will depend on what phone you have. 

T-Mobile has stated that when fully launched, direct-to-cell satellite connectivity will be compatible with most modern phones from the last four years. However, only a handful of smartphone models are currently compatible. These include some of the latest models from Apple, Samsung, Google, and Motorola.

The service is limited to this list for now, though Starlink and T-Mobile say older phone models are capable of using the service. However, the hardware that they want to expand satellite service to needs to have a specific certification from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Both companies sent a letter to the FCC asking for a waiver to the rule. Their central argument is the usage of direct-to-cell for emergency situations, citing its use during the Southeast U.S. hurricanes of 2024.

Here is the complete list of compatible phones as of April 10, 2025:

How to use T-Mobile Starlink

Your phone’s Apple iOS or Android OS needs to be updated to the latest version. If accepted into the beta, you’ll receive a text message informing you you’re in. From there, you don’t need to do anything else. When out of cellular range, your phone will automatically connect to Starlink.

T-Mobile also released an updated coverage map to show where Direct to Cell is usable. 

Since the service is currently in beta, customers can only send text messages. Several factors need to occur for the planed voice and data capabilities including regulatory changes and more Starlink satellites launched. T-Mobile said participants in the beta should temper their expectations and expect text messages to take longer to send over T-Mobile Starlink. For the best results, users should be outdoors and point their phones toward a clear sky.

For customers of AT&T, Verizon, and other carriers, your phone must be unlocked to use Starlink Direct to Cell. You must also download an eSIM to use your current carrier and T-Mobile Starlink. Different carriers have different rules for unlocking phones purchased through them, but typically, you can unlock phones after a certain amount of time owning them or when you finish making payments.