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T-Mobile extends satellite-based networks to support WhatsApp and X in mobile-dead zones

T-Mobile announced on Wednesday that its satellite-to-cell networks now support widely used apps including WhatsApp, Google Maps, and X. This service offers connectivity in mobile dead zones as well as remote areas.

The service was launched commercially in July, with limited access to MMS, SMS, picture messages, and short audio clips.

T-Satellite is powered by over 650 Starlink satellites that transmit directly to cell phones. It's also available in about a dozen other apps, such as Pixel Weather and Apple Music.

Jeff Giard is vice president of strategic partnerships and product innovations at Apple. He said: "We've worked with Apple and Google on frameworks for SAT (satellite connection feature) to allow any app to adopt the mode while connected to satellite and access the data channel."

When a terrestrial signal is lost, T-Satellite users' phones automatically switch to the satellite network. Customers can launch satellite-ready apps to get critical services instead of data-intensive experiences.

T-Mobile’s new “Experience Beyond” plan includes the network at no additional cost. The service is $10 per month for AT&T or Verizon customers.

Giard stated that the framework for both the App Store (App Store) and the Play Store (Play Store) now allows apps to adopt SAT Mode through an application program interface. T-Mobile is also working to encourage app developers to activate the SAT mode.

Giard stated, "I believe people are excited that their phone can connect to outerspace and that they don't have to purchase extra equipment to get a satellite telephone." (Reporting and editing by Shilpa Majumdar in Bengaluru, Harshita Varghese from Bengaluru)

(source: Reuters)