The T-Mobile license is the first collaboration between a satellite operator and wireless carrier to be approved by the FCC to provide supplemental cell coverage from space. “The Commission recognized that satellite-to-device connectivity can support critical public interest benefits,

Using satellites as a backup for cell service, and providing coverage in areas where traditional service doesn't cover, just took a big step forward.

The companies announced a partnership in 2022 and the first set of satellites for the venture were launched into low-Earth orbit in January.

What Happened: The FCC has granted SpaceX a U.S. commercial license for its Starlink Direct-to-Cell service. This license allows SpaceX to operate its Gen2 Starlink satellites for non-geostationary orbit fixed-satellite services.

T-Mobile plans already offer some of the best value in the business with their reasonable pricing and top-tier coverage. Now that supplemental Starlink service has been approved by the FCC, the value proposition has become even stronger.

"The FCC is actively promoting competition in the space economy by supporting more partnerships between terrestrial mobile carriers and satellite operators to deliver on a single network future that will put an end to mobile dead zones," said FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel in a statement.

Starlink has announced the launch of its direct-to-cell satellite internet that aims to provide global cellular connectivity without ground-based infrastructure.

The FCC has granted SpaceX permission to go forward with plans to offer a direct-to-phone version of its Starlink satellite internet service, with