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All T-Mobile customers can send satellite texts during winter storm Fern

With Fern projected to intensify and cause disruptions, T-Mobile doesn't want to leave its customers without connectivity.

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By Anam Hamid

Updated: Jan 24, 2026, 7:38 PM

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T-Mobile Wireless service

t-mobile t-satellite texting free during fern

T‑Mobile's portable generators ready to be deployed for Fern. | Image Credit - T-Mobile

Winter storm Fern has arrived, and is expected to intensify over the coming days, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Projected to be a historic event, Fern could cause widespread outages. T-Mobile has prepared to keep its network running despite severe weather conditions and is ready to support to both local communities and first responders. As part of its preparedness measures, the company is activating T-Satellite for all of its customers.

T-Mobile keeps customers connected

T-Satellite is a collaboration between T-Mobile and SpaceX's satellite internet company Starlink to beam connectivity to phones from space. Phones automatically connect to the service whenever signals are unavailable.

With approximately 148 million Americans in Fern's path, service disruptions are a concern. While T-Mobile reports its network is performing well and on-site power solutions will keep it running even if power is knocked out, the company is taking no chances.

T-Mobile has deployed T-Satellite to all customers and will send Wireless Emergency Alerts to all devices, including those on rival networks. Registered non-T-Mobile customers can already text 911 without having to pay.

T-Satellite is included for free with Experience Beyond and Go5G Next, but it costs $10 a month for everyone else. For the duration of Fern, all T-Mobile customers will have T-Satellite, but for non-paying subscribers, the service will be limited to texting. This means that not everyone will be able to use satellite-ready apps like WhatsApp and X, but they will still be able to text friends, family, and 911.

Expanded access

Fern is drawing comparisons to 2021's Winter Storm Uri, which knocked out power for millions in Texas. Multi-day power outages cannot be ruled out, and the extreme weather conditions can also stress infrastructure.

In addition to ensuring its customers remain connected, T-Mobile is also deploying Wi-Fi and charging vehicles. It's also coordinating with state and local agencies to provide support.

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Safety first

T-Satellite has been developed for exactly the kind of conditions that may be approaching: weak signals that impede your ability to stay in touch. T-Mobile has risen to the occasion by prioritising the safety of its customers.

It's best to stay indoors, charge your devices, and keep portable chargers handy.

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Anam Hamid is a computer scientist turned tech journalist who has a keen interest in the tech world, with a particular focus on smartphones and tablets. She has previously written for Android Headlines and has also been a ghostwriter for several tech and car publications. Anam is not a tech hoarder and believes in using her gadgets for as long as possible. She is concerned about smartphone addiction and its impact on future generations, but she also appreciates the convenience that phones have brought into our lives. Anam is excited about technological advancements like folding screens and under-display sensors, and she often wonders about the future of technology. She values the overall experience of a device more than its individual specs and admires companies that deliver durable, high-quality products. In her free time, Anam enjoys reading, scrolling through Reddit and Instagram, and occasionally refreshing her programming skills through tutorials.

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