Image Source freemalaysiatoday
As the U.S. wireless carrier seeks to eradicate mobile dead zones and expand connectivity to remote areas, T-Mobile (TMUS.O), opens a new tab, announced on Sunday that it has begun extensive testing of its satellite-to-cell service, powered by SpaceX’s Starlink.
T-Mobile’spremiumGo5G Next plan will incorporate the plan at no additional cost after the beta trial ends in July. Following its commercial debut this summer, the service can be added to any other plan for $15 per month.
By bridging the gap between satellite technology and conventional cell networks, the move could signal a significant change in mobile connectivity and guarantee seamless coverage everywhere on Earth.
500,000 square miles of the United States that are inaccessible to terrestrial cell towers can now remain connected, according to T-Mobile.
The company said during Sunday’s Super Bowl game that the beta launch will provide text service through satellite, with voice and data features to follow.
When the service is commercially launched, customers who sign up for the trial will receive a 33% discount, according to the wireless carrier.
Given that the company’s investments to increase coverage, particularly in rural and smaller markets, have led to industry-leading net phone additions in the fourth quarter, the service might strengthen its competitive edge.
(Newsroom staff only edited this story for style from a syndicated feed)
