T-Mobile Announces New Satellite Partnership
If you were one of the roughly 127 million viewers who tuned into watch the Superbowl this year, then you more than likely caught the T-Mobile ad about being able to get satellite service on your smartphone. In fact, the chances are pretty high that a fair chunk of that 127 million sets of eyes saw the ad because, c'mon, don't we all make it a point to watch the ads during the Super Bowl?
What is unique about this offer, is that T-Mobile has partnered with a satellite service provider to allow customers to stay connected, even when out of cellular coverage. This feature is currently in beta testing and will begin with texting service only via your smartphone's messaging app, meaning users can send and receive standard text-based messages, including texts to 911. There is a roadmap to include picture messaging, data services and voice calling in the future.
Coverage on this new satellite service will include most of North America, as well as Hawaii and parts of Alaska. Expect the coverage area to increase in size over time, to include international waters and more of a global footprint.
Most smartphones introduced in the past few years should be compatible with this new service, specifically Apple, Samsung and Google models. Please consult your provider to confirm your smartphone's compatibility.
Once the beta testing is complete, there will be a $15-$20 monthly fee to use the app, depending on your current carrier.
Can't I connect to satellite services with my current iPhone already?
Yes you can! iPhone models 14 and higher allow users to connect their phones to satellite services, allowing them to text emergency services, request roadside assistance, message friends and family, and share their location. This is a similar service to the new T-Mobile offering, at this time there are no confirmed dates for adding data and voice services to this feature.
Why would I rent a satellite phone if my iPhone has satellite service?
This is a very good question. After all, if I am able to latch onto a satellite signal in the middle of nowhere and send a text, why would I want to drag along a second phone?
There are actually quite a few reasons for renting a purpose-built handset over using a satellite app on your smartphone, let's review a few of them.
The number one reason we hear from users when we ask why they wish to rent or purchase a satellite handset is for emergency purposes – if something happens to them, or should someone at home need to reach them, they never want to be out of contact. The need to stay connected, regardless of where one finds oneself in the world, is the most common reason for wanting to take along a satellite phone. So why would anyone want to risk this connection by using an app that is downloaded to their smartphone? Once you're in the field and out of traditional cellular coverage, you are solely reliant on that satellite connection, it's best to make sure you have a purpose-built satellite device on its own satellite network. A satellite phone offers superior reliability, wider coverage, more robust design, and is specifically optimized for communication in remote areas with no cell service, whereas a smartphone's satellite feature is primarily designed for emergency SOS situations and may struggle in challenging environments or with extended usage.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Coverage and reliability: Satellite phones have true global coverage (with the exception of the North and South Poles depending on satellite network) ensuring connectivity even in extremely remote areas, while smartphone satellite features may have limited coverage depending on location, satellite network availability, and handset design.
- Durability: Handheld satellite phones all carry mil-spec ratings to withstand harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, water, and rugged use, making them more suitable to the harsh conditions experienced when traveling off-grid.
- Dedicated antenna: Satellite phones have dedicated antennas designed for one purpose: to be used on that satellite phone's network. Smartphones utilize smaller, multi-purpose antennas that will not provide as solid a connection.
- Functionality: Satellite phones allow voice, text, GPS SOS service, GPS tracking services, and with some models data access.
So while having the capability to connect to a satellite network via your smartphone is certainly convenient, it does not provide the safety and security of having a purpose-built satellite device with you on your travels.
How many hikers require Search and Rescue (SAR) services in State and National Parks each year?
The important bit to remember about traveling off-grid, is that nobody ever plans to have an accident. Sure, we can pack things like bandages, antibiotics and aspirin, but speaking for myself, I've never planned to roll an ankle or break a bone. State and National Park attendance is on the rise. Over 3 million people visited Yellowstone and Glacier parks in 2024, a 9% increase over 2023. 2023 saw an increase in National Park attendance of 4% over 2022, with 93.4 visitors enjoying the great outdoors. According to the National Park Service, National Parks accounted for 28% of all nationally regulated park types, which include monuments, memorials and museums. The trend is moving to outdoor activities. And increasing right alongside these attendance numbers are the number of Search and Rescue operations required each year.
Below are SAR numbers from 2028-2020:
- Grand Canyon National Park – 785
- Yosemite National Park – 732
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks – 503
- Yellowstone National Park – 371
- Rocky Mountain National Park – 341
- Zion National Park – 285
So going back to my earlier statement, none of these 3017 park visitors planned on having to be rescued. The good news for all of us, is that we can plan on being able to reach help should it be required, and the safest, most reliable method to contact Emergency Services is with a purpose-built, satellite handset on a dedicated satellite network. Voice service, GPS, texting … all available from a satellite phone that fits nicely into the side pocket of your backpack. The above numbers confirm that an off-the-grid accident is a distinct possibility, make sure you're prepared the next time you venture into the great outdoors!
