Telstra adds select apps to its Starlink-backed Satellite to Mobile service
Telstra has widened its Satellite to Mobile service beyond text messaging, letting eligible customers use selected messaging, navigation, weather and fitness apps outside mobile coverage. The feature was developed with Starlink and works on a limited list of devices.
Telstra has announced that eligible customers can now run a range of chosen apps over its Satellite to Mobile service, which until now was largely about text messaging. The capability was built with Starlink and applies when a customer is beyond the reach of Telstra's mobile network and linked via satellite.
The supported list currently spans navigation, messaging, weather and fitness. Navigation covers Apple Maps and Google Maps. Messaging covers WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger and Signal. Weather covers Apple Weather, Google Weather and AccuWeather. Google Fitness and the My Telstra App are also included.
Access depends on four conditions: the customer holds an eligible Telstra plan, owns a compatible handset, is out of Telstra mobile coverage, and has an unobstructed view of the sky. At present the supported handsets are the iPhone 13 and later models plus the Samsung Galaxy S26 family, and Telstra expects to add more devices over time.
The source describes the service as likely to suit people travelling, working or exploring in regional and remote areas, who could get directions, weather and messaging when normal coverage is missing. Telstra advises that satellite connectivity is no substitute for mobile coverage or emergency communications and should not be relied on in an emergency.