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ZDNET's key takeaways
- T-Satellite now supports MMS on select Android devices.
- Send images, voice notes, and short videos via satellite.
- Satellite data support for optimized apps is coming October 2025.
T-Mobile's satellite service, T-Satellite, has quietly upgraded into a more capable off-grid communication tool. Originally meant to handle basic SMS, the service now supports full MMS messaging on select Android devices.
Send images, voice notes, and video
Your phone should automatically switch to the satellite link when it loses cell service. You'll see the T-Mobile and SpaceX logo, which indicate a solid connection, and from there you can start texting, sending images, and recording voice notes.
Our Ziff Davis sister site PCMag put MMS over T-Satellite to the test and reported that you need a clear view of the sky and shouldn't expect tower-like speeds. Still, you can send images, audio, and even short video files in a couple of minutes.
Also: How to use your iPhone's emergency satellite features if you lose cell coverage
The new capability apparently works on compatible Samsung and Motorola handsets to start -- just open your default Messages app on a supported phone, choose attach picture or attach file, and then send your JPG, GIF, voice clip, or video. Longer videos can take upward of 20 minutes to transmit, but the battery impact on your device appears modest.
Satellite data for apps is coming
Beyond MMS, T-Mobile has teased a broader "satellite data" feature for optimized apps. Coming in October 2025, third-party apps such as WhatsApp, AccuWeather, and X will reportedly be able to send data over Starlink.
"We are also rolling out picture and voice messaging to select devices and will continue adding more in the coming months," T-Mobile's website reads. "Next up, we'll deliver satellite data for optimized apps, and will continue to add more features."
How to try T-Satellite
The ability to transmit real-time information via images, audio, and app data is a compelling reason to try T-Satellite if you haven't already. The service is now generally available across the US, including Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and parts of southern Alaska.
Also: You can get an iPhone 16 Pro from T-Mobile for free - with no trade-in required
If you're on T-Mobile's top-tier Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plan, T-Satellite comes at no extra cost. Everyone else, including AT&T and Verizon subscribers who want to sign up, can add it for $10 a month right here.
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