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Company teams up with Starlink to bring satellite internet to cell phones, revolutionizing connectivity. But what about Brazil? The high cost and lack of partnerships still make it difficult to adopt the technology.
In an increasingly connected world, the search for solutions that bring quality internet to remote areas has been a priority for technology and telecommunications companies.
A recent collaboration between industry giants promises to transform the way we connect, especially in places where traditional coverage is limited or non-existent.
T-Mobile, one of the leading mobile phone operators in the United States, has joined forces with Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service, to offer connectivity in areas without cellular network coverage.
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This initiative aims to eliminate so-called “blind spots” and ensure that users remain connected regardless of their location.
According to the Financial Times, the collaboration has already resulted in successful trials, including video calls made in previously signal-free regions, demonstrating the revolutionary potential of this technology.
Which cell phones are compatible?
To take advantage of the satellite connectivity offered by the partnership between T-Mobile and Starlink, users must have compatible devices.
The list includes recent smartphone models from the main brands on the market:
- Apple : iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max; iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max; iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max.
- Google: The entire Pixel 9 lineup.
- Motorola: Razr (2024), Razr Plus (2024), Edge, and G-series models such as Moto G Power 5G (2024).
- Samsung: Galaxy A14 to A54; Galaxy S21 to S25; Galaxy Z Flip 3 to Z Flip 6; Galaxy Z Fold 3 to Z Fold 6; Galaxy X Cover 6 Pro.
- T-Mobile: REVVL 7 5G and 5G Pro.
Devices must be updated to the latest operating system version to ensure proper functioning of satellite connectivity.
In the case of iPhones, for example, they must be running iOS 18.3 or higher.
Plans and costs after the beta period
During the beta period, which runs through July 2025, T-Mobile is offering free trials of the satellite connectivity service to users of several carriers, including Verizon and AT&T.
After this period, the plans will be structured as follows:
- T-Mobile customers with Go5G Next plan: Access to the service at no additional cost.
- Other T-Mobile customers: Monthly fee of $15.
- Users of other carriers (Verizon, AT&T, etc.): Monthly fee of $20.
During the beta period, there is a promotional discount, reducing the cost to $10 per month until March 2025.
These values make satellite connectivity a viable and affordable option for many consumers, especially those in areas with limited or no coverage.
And in Brazil? Satellite connectivity is still a challenge
While the United States moves forward with this innovative partnership, satellite connectivity in Brazil still faces challenges.
Although Starlink has been available in the country since 2022, its high cost has been an impediment to widespread adoption.
Currently, Starlink's monthly plan costs around R$184, in addition to the value of the installation kit, which exceeds R$2.000.
Starlink's coverage in Brazil has been mainly focused on rural areas and places where traditional networks do not reach.
However, there is still no forecast for the implementation of a partnership similar to that of T-Mobile by Brazilian operators.
Companies such as Vivo, Claro and TIM continue to invest in the expansion of fiber optics and 5G, but the adoption of satellite technology for cell phones is still uncertain.
In Brazil, some government initiatives, such as the program Wi-Fi Brazil, already use satellites to bring internet to schools and isolated communities.
However, the direct connection of smartphones to satellites, as proposed in the US, has not yet been implemented on a large scale.
Impact of satellite connectivity on the digital landscape
The integration of Starlink technology into T-Mobile services represents a significant step forward in expanding global connectivity.
By allowing ordinary smartphones to connect directly to satellites, this partnership opens up new possibilities for users in isolated regions, providing access to high-speed internet for browsing, communication and even high-definition broadcasts.
However, experts warn that, while promising, satellite connectivity may not match the performance of traditional terrestrial networks, especially in terms of speed and latency.
Furthermore, challenges such as physical obstacles and access to adequate radio spectrum can influence the quality of service.
I don't see anything wrong with buying another phone, it's difficult, I hope I don't disappoint anyone. I'm waiting, it's difficult to buy another cell phone.
When does this service start?
I'm very anxious.
In my city, residents are running out of cable internet, they are cutting them all off.
From this ****, ****, ****, born in the Apartheid regime, I will never hire anything, I will never buy ANYTHING! Elon Musk and the “Rapo” current president of the USA, who ****?