T-Mobile to Starlink service (T-Satellite)

[dmattmul]

After installing a Starlink antenna in my wingtip (worked great till Starlink changed the max speed rules) looking at plan B which would be to upgrade my dinosaur I-phone to a 17 which supposably has the capability to receive Starlink signals which "connect automatically when you are completely out of range of standard cell towers and Wi-Fi". I assume 10k AGL puts me out of range of a tower so does this really work? Anyone doing this? I realize T-Mobile and Starlink could decide anyone moving 200 mph might be exempt from this service at any time. Getting access to the internet in flight is a really nice safety enhancement.

 

[Bill.Peyton]

I have a iPhone 17 on the Verizon network. In the plane and when out of range it allows you to connect to the satellite, but only for texting. Sometimes it takes 5-10 mins to connect.

 

[ve0kog]

I used t-mobile satellite texting on the iphone 15 when they had a free beta. It worked fine in flight, 2-way, but I did have to point the phone to the sat.

knowing what happened to Starlink plans, if this service works we must follow two rules:

1. You do not talk about 200 mph T-Satellite club
and
2. You do not talk about 200 mph T-Satellite club

 

[Tooch]

I have the T mobile satilite data plan. It dosen't seem to want to connect when in the air at crusing speeds. They may have a speed limit on it. Works fine on the ground

 

[- Poindexter -]

As a benchmark, tried to use Starlink mini on my flight from California to Telluride last week, and still got kicked to the curb for going too fast. Thanks for looking at options, would like to have this as it is a great safety improvement.

 

[AV8ER]

As a data point:
I have an iPhone 16 max (was a beta tester) and the satellite text option works very reliably. When out of ground coverage a window pops up and shows you how to aim the phone at a satellite. Once the icon goes green you are connected. You must keep the phone aimed to send a message and cannot send group texts. It also seems to work better (and possibly only) with other current iPhones on the receiving end. After sending a message I set the phone down in between the door handle and the door in the -10 and by the next time I pick it up again it typically has received a reply text from the recipient.

 

[Phil Sprang]

I have the T-Mobile satellite text option and Starlink. They are different like oil and water. As mentioned above, the satellite text works, if you put in the effort. There is aiming involved. It may improve over time but right now, it is just OK. Starlink is life changing, but I need to turn it off. I only signed up for a couple long trips this summer.

 

[Quotafiller]

Hasnt worked great in the plane for me either. Lots of holding the phone at angles to try to connect