T-Mobile: 'Paperwork' is blocking SpaceX messaging on more phones

T-Mobile is asking the Federal Communications Commission for permission to expand its SpaceX satellite messaging service to more phones. The reason the request is necessary? Paperwork. According to T-Mobile, the issue centers on obscure FCC waivers and authorizations for SCS services as well as for standard smartphones. In its filing, the operator explained that an FCC action that granted SpaceX authorization to connect its Starlink satellites to some phones did not cover "legacy devices" or those that received FCC equipment authorizations before June 29, 2024. "Ensuring that all compatible legacy devices ... may similarly be used for SCS operations will allow the public to seamlessly receive services and emergency alerts in difficult-to-reach areas of the country and during and after emergencies—a result clearly in the public interest," T-Mobile argued.