T-Mobile customers are expressing frustration with the performance of Starlink’s satellite messaging service. Many users report difficulties in connecting, although the service remains in beta. Earlier this year, T-Mobile partnered with Starlink to introduce a satellite messaging service aimed at providing an alternative means of communication when cellular coverage is unavailable. Unfortunately, it has not met user expectations.

Numerous users have taken to platforms like Reddit to share their disappointing experiences. One Redditor, identified as lordhamster1997, recounted their attempts to test Starlink during a family trip to places like Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. “Death Valley seemed like the ideal testing ground—wide open skies, no interference,” they said. Despite getting 1-2 bars of signal, they were unable to send any messages over four days, only receiving repeated “Welcome to Starlink Beta” notifications.

Other users echoed similar frustrations. Another Redditor mentioned their unsuccessful attempts to send messages while at Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas, while yet another user described being in a dead zone in Pennsylvania despite clear skies. These experiences highlight significant issues in the service’s reliability when it is most needed. It is important to note that the T-Mobile Starlink messaging service is still in beta.

Beta phases typically encounter challenges, and these reported issues raise concerns, especially since the service is intended for emergency communication. T-Mobile plans to eventually charge $15 a month for access to the service, although customers currently enrolled in the beta can use it for free. With the official launch planned for July, T-Mobile customers on the Go 5G Next plan will have access at no cost. However, customers on other plans will incur a $15 monthly fee, while competitors like Verizon and AT&T will charge $20.

This means T-Mobile customers are benefitting from a relatively lower pricing structure, even amidst their current dissatisfaction with the service.