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T-Mobile Opens Free Satellite Text-to-911 Access to All U.S. Wireless Users

The option routes emergency texts over T-Mobile’s Starlink-powered T-Satellite network to reach areas beyond terrestrial coverage.

Overview

  • Starting Nov. 5, anyone on any carrier with a compatible smartphone can enroll to text 911 via satellite at no cost.
  • Phones switch to the satellite link automatically when cellular service drops, and users text 911 from the native messaging app as usual.
  • T-Satellite defers to device-native emergency satellite features, and T-Mobile’s 911 texting does not support models like iPhone 14 or later and Pixel 9 or later (except 9A).
  • Service works in roughly 500,000 square miles with a clear view of the sky, and T-Mobile warns satellite texts may be delayed, limited, or unavailable in some conditions.
  • Full T-Satellite messaging and supported apps remain included on select T-Mobile plans or available for $10 per month, and non-T-Mobile users may need an unlocked phone with eSIM for broader features.