Text From Anywhere on Earth
Apple, T-Mobile, and Verizon all offer satellite messaging. Here's exactly what you get with each—and which one is right for you.
500K+
Square miles of US dead zones
650+
Starlink satellites (T-Mobile)
30s
Message send time (ideal)
60+
Phones supported
Side-by-Side Comparison
Everything you need to know about each carrier's satellite service, in one place.
Apple
Globalstar Network
Free
for 2 years after activation
- ✓ iMessage & SMS
- ✓ End-to-end encryption
- ✓ Emergency SOS
- ✗ Third-party apps
- ✗ Photos & video
- ✗ Android support
Connection: Must point phone at satellite
Coverage: US, Canada, Mexico, Japan
BEST VALUE
T-Mobile
Starlink (650+ satellites)
$0–$10
Free on premium plans, $10/mo add-on
- ✓ SMS messaging
- ✓ WhatsApp, AllTrails, Maps
- ✓ Text to 911 (any carrier!)
- ✓ Works in your pocket
- ✓ 60+ devices supported
- ✗ Photos & video
Connection: Automatic—no pointing required
Coverage: US (500K+ sq mi of dead zones)
Verizon
Satellite Network
Free
included with myPlan
- ✓ Text messaging
- ✓ Emergency SOS
- ✓ Works in airplane mode
- COMING Group texts
- COMING Photos & video calls
- COMING Navigation & web
Connection: Auto-detect, then tap to connect
Coverage: Continental US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska
Winner by Category
Different services excel in different areas. Here's our breakdown.
Best Price
🏆 Apple & Verizon (tie)
Apple: Free for 2 years. Verizon: Free ongoing with myPlan.
Easiest Connection
🏆 T-Mobile
Connects automatically in your pocket. No pointing required.
Best App Support
🏆 T-Mobile
WhatsApp, AllTrails, Google Maps, X, and more work via satellite.
Best for iPhone Users
🏆 Apple
Native integration, end-to-end encryption, no carrier needed.
Most Promising Roadmap
🏆 Verizon
Video calls, photos, navigation, and web browsing announced.
Best Emergency Feature
🏆 T-Mobile
Text to 911 works for ANY carrier—even Verizon and AT&T customers.
Which One Is Right for You?
Your ideal satellite service depends on how you'll use it.
For Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
When you're deep in the backcountry, you need your navigation and trail apps to work—not just basic texting. T-Mobile's support for AllTrails, Google Maps, and weather apps makes it the clear winner for serious outdoor recreation.
Our Recommendation: T-Mobile for active use (trail apps, navigation). Apple as a backup for iPhone users who just need to send "I'm safe" texts.
Ready to Stay Connected?
Check with your carrier for specific plan requirements and compatible devices.