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T-Mobile Expands Satellite Network to Support WhatsApp, X, and Google Maps in Remote Areas

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T-Mobile announced on Wednesday that its satellite-to-cell network—developed in partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink—now supports popular apps such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, and X, expanding mobile connectivity for users in dead zones and remote regions.

The service, known as T-Satellite, initially launched commercially in July 2024 with limited capabilities, allowing only SMS texting, MMS, photo messages, and short audio clips when users were outside the range of traditional mobile networks.

Now, T-Mobile says the system can support a dozen widely used apps, including Apple Music, Samsung Find, Pixel Weather, AccuWeather, and AllTrails, alongside its new flagship “Experience Beyond” plan.

“We’ve worked closely with Apple and Google to create frameworks for SAT mode so that any app can access the data channel when connected to the satellite,” said Jeff Giard, T-Mobile’s Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Product Innovation, in an interview with Reuters.

HOW IT WORKS

The network relies on more than 650 Starlink direct-to-cell satellites, which automatically connect when a user’s device loses a terrestrial signal.
Apps that are “satellite-ready” provide essential services such as navigation, communication, and weather updates — though not full, data-heavy features like high-definition video streaming.

T-Mobile customers under the Experience Beyond plan can access the network at no extra charge, while users from AT&T and Verizon can subscribe for $10 per month.

EXPANDING DEVELOPER ACCESS

Giard said that both the App Store and Google Play Store now support SAT mode integration through a dedicated API, enabling developers to make their apps satellite-compatible.
T-Mobile is working with app makers to encourage adoption, especially for tools that provide critical communications and safety features.

“People are excited that their regular phone can now connect to space,” Giard said. “They essentially get a satellite phone experience—without having to buy new equipment.”

With this expansion, T-Mobile strengthens its push toward universal mobile connectivity, aiming to make complete coverage a reality even in the world’s most remote areas.

Ukraine Tests Starlink Direct-to-Cell Technology with Kyivstar

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Ukraine’s Kyivstar, the country’s largest mobile operator, has successfully field-tested Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology in Eastern Europe, the company announced Tuesday. The pilot took place in the Zhytomyr region, with Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov and Ukraine’s Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov exchanging messages via standard smartphones.

WHY IT MATTERS
Direct-to-cell technology allows satellites to beam cellular signals directly to phones, providing connectivity when terrestrial networks are disrupted—a key advantage in war-torn Ukraine, where Russian attacks frequently damage infrastructure. The technology essentially acts as a cell tower in space, improving coverage in areas with limited or damaged ground networks.

GLOBAL CONTEXT
Telecom operators worldwide are exploring satellite solutions to reduce dead zones in remote or challenging terrain. Starlink, owned by SpaceX, has deals with carriers in 10 countries to offer direct-to-cell services, with Kyivstar positioned to be the first European operator to launch commercially.

NEXT STEPS

  • Kyivstar and Starlink plan a commercial rollout in Q4 2025, initially supporting messaging services.

  • Mobile satellite broadband access for broader users is expected early 2026.

  • VEON, Kyivstar’s parent company, is also exploring partnerships with providers such as Amazon’s Project Kuiper to expand satellite connectivity for mobile devices beyond Ukraine.