T-Mobile targets Starlink services for older phones

T-Mobile is pushing for Starlink satellite messaging on legacy phones.

The carrier filed a request with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to broaden its Starlink-powered satellite messaging service to older smartphones, seeking to sidestep a paperwork snag that limits access. T-Mobile argues the move would bring potentially life-saving connectivity to more users. Current FCC rules exclude “legacy devices” from accessing T-Mobile’s Starlink phone services.

T-Mobile’s filing notes: “Pursuant to the rules, consumers cannot take advantage of the new potentially life-saving service unless the manufacturer of the equipment they already own and operate seeks modified equipment authorization.” It adds, “Worse, consumers have no ability to cause manufacturers to update their equipment authorizations – an inability with potentially severe consequences in the midst of an emergency when they need SCS [supplemental coverage from space] connectivity most.”

The carrier stressed public interest, stating, “Requiring terrestrial operators or their SCS partners to block access to SCS service on a device-by-device basis due not to a technical issue, but to a paperwork requirement, is also contrary to the public interest.”

T-Mobile’s off-the-grid phone services are powered by 555 Starlink satellites and target unmodified smartphones. With Americans swapping phones every three years, per industry trends, the rule change’s reach is uncertain. The future of T-Mobile’s Starlink phone services becomes even more uncertain when considering new devices like the iPhone 16 offer built-in satellite features. Still, T-Mobile’s bid aligns with a buzzing phone-to-satellite sector, where rivals like AT&T are also eyeing space-based solutions.

A T-Mobile rep told Light Reading, “The goal with T-Mobile Starlink has always been to have it work on phones people already own so they don’t have to go out and buy brand new devices.”

Phones eligible for T-Mobile’s Starlink phone services include the following:

• Apple iPhone 14 and later (including Plus, Pro, Pro Max, & e models)
• Google Pixel 9 (including Pro, Pro Fold, & Pro XL models)
• Motorola 2024 and later (including razr, razr+, edge, and the g series)
• Samsung Galaxy A14, A15, A16, A35, A53, A54
• Samsung Galaxy S21 and later (including Plus, Ultra, and Fan Edition models)
• Samsung Galaxy X Cover6 Pro
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 and later
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 and later
• T-Mobile REVVL 7 (including the Pro models)

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