Free text messages for users of its own and rival networks during test period T-Mobile US has started a public beta of its Direct-to-Cell service using Starlink satellites, offering just text messages for now,

T-Mobile's Starlink Direct-to-Cell beta is now open to everyone in the US, including Verizon and AT&T customers. This expands access from its initial limited rollout to T-Mobile subscribers and Pixel 9 users.

T-Mobile Starlink is obviously available to T-Mobile customers, but the carrier said that Verizon and AT&T customers can also use it on their existing phones without switching entirely to T-Mobile. Verizon and AT&T customers will need an unlocked phone with eSIM technology, which lets users activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card.