As the satellite service gets into its rhythm, there’s a fresh (and anticipated) feature being introduced.
What you need to be aware of:
– T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service is reportedly beginning to support MMS messages (images, GIFs, videos, and audio snippets) for “specific” Samsung and Motorola devices.
– In a trial, it was noted that T-Satellite’s service can accept MMS texts; however, users should be ready to experience delays when downloading such files.
– T-Mobile revealed T-Satellite’s debut on July 23 for SMS support on Android and iOS in areas with no signal.
T-Mobile’s collaboration with Starlink is said to be introducing a new texting feature that users should take note of.
This week, PCMag reported the launch of MMS texting functionalities in T-Mobile’s T-Satellite system for “specific” Samsung and Motorola smartphones (via PhoneArena). MMS refers to multimedia messaging service, an extensive term for messages that include images, GIFs, and more. In the publication’s assessment, it mentions that while MMS in T-Satellite might help it “differentiate” from competitors, there are important considerations for users.
The article outlines potential challenges users may face when trying to send images, videos, and GIFs. In terms of photos, they are noted to be transmitted within a two-minute timeframe, according to their evaluations. Videos, often larger files, took about 10 to 20 minutes to send. PCMag emphasizes how surprising this was for a couple of five-second video clips.
If a person on a reliable cellular network or otherwise is attempting to send you an MMS text, it will “require time to download” on T-Mobile’s T-Satellite network.
Other media received through the T-Satellite system does not take as long, but the article mentions it will still “require time to download.” It’s also important to remember that MMS messages, just like standard texts, will necessitate users to remain in an unobstructed view of the sky to prevent additional interruptions and delays.
T-Satellite keeps you engaged
T-Mobile and Starlink have been exploring satellite connectivity for some time now, a journey that gained momentum following the FCC’s approval. This accelerated earlier this year in January when T-Mobile began launching its satellite texting beta. The two companies initially focused on individuals working in emergency roles, providing them a firsthand look at how operations would unfold upon launch.
With a projected release in 2025, T-Mobile and Starlink delivered on those forecasts, rolling out the T-Satellite service on July 23. The announcement featured a successful testing phase, with over 1.8 million users participating, including some from AT&T and Verizon networks. T-Mobile has thoroughly communicated all the necessary information for interested customers looking to join, but there are additional specifics. The T-Satellite service is reportedly included in the T-Mobile Experience Beyond plan “at no extra charge.”
However, all other users, including those from AT&T and Verizon, are required to pay the additional monthly fee of $10.
This initial announcement highlighted what PCMag has started observing this week: the introduction of MMS functionalities. While T-Satellite launched with SMS (standard texts) for Android and iOS, MMS was scheduled to be added later, which we are now witnessing at the end of July. Keep in mind, T-Mobile indicates that more features are on the way as a “data-driven service” is set to go live on October 1.
