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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.

Ukraine to launch Starlink mobile internet in 2026, becoming Europe’s first

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Ukraine is set to become the first European country to offer Starlink mobile services, with telecom operator Kyivstar planning to roll out messaging by the end of 2025 and mobile satellite broadband by mid-2026, Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov announced.

Under a deal with SpaceX signed in late 2024, field tests have already started for direct-to-cell satellite services, which connect smartphones directly to satellites without relying on traditional cell towers. This technology allows satellite constellations to function like mobile networks from space.

Komarov told Reuters that the initial phase will focus on over-the-top (OTT) messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Signal, expected to be operational by the end of this year. Full mobile satellite broadband data and voice services are targeted for launch by the second quarter of 2026.

While SpaceX did not comment, the announcement follows a related plan by U.S. carrier T-Mobile, which will offer data services on its Starlink-powered satellite-to-cell network starting October.

Komarov made these remarks ahead of a Ukraine recovery conference hosted by Italy, marking three years since Russia’s invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is also attending the event. Komarov emphasized his goal to support the Ukrainian government and foster new business relations, including partnerships with Italian firms aiming to invest in Ukraine.

Kyivstar, part of telecom group VEON, is progressing with plans for a U.S. stock market listing on NASDAQ, aiming to complete the direct placement of a Ukrainian entity during wartime by Q3 2025 — a first in history, Komarov noted.

Despite ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure causing widespread blackouts last year, Komarov said telecom services have become more resilient. Currently, Kyivstar can maintain fixed and mobile services for up to 10 hours even during national blackouts.