T-Mobile has opened up a registration page on its website for customers to sign up for a beta launch of its direct-to-cell satellite service coming early next year with Starlink.

The carrier didn't provide an exact date for the beta launch, but noted that there will be limited availability to beta-test the satellite-powered service.

The beta test will support texting with voice and data services set to follow.

T-Mobile's decision to open up the registration page follows approval given to Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, last month by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Approval from the FCC means that SpaceX can provide satellite coverage direct to mobile devices through its Starlink service.

It will allow SpaceX to push forward with its partnership with T-Mobile to deploy mobile signal connectivity from space to cover dead spots. The partnership was first announced more than two years ago.

“T-Mobile Starlink is the first major low-earth orbit constellation in the world paired with terrestrial cellular spectrum, making the phone in your pocket work in areas of the US that have never, and probably never will, have ground-based coverage,” said Mike Katz, president of marketing, strategy, and products, T-Mobile.

T-Mobile confirmed that the beta program is free for all T-Mobile postpaid voice customers with a compatible device.

Earlier this year, SpaceX founder Elon Musk confirmed that Starlink will provide mobile phone Internet in the US exclusively to T-Mobile for just one year.

In August 2022, T-Mobile stated that its partnership with Starlink will provide speeds of around 2-4Mbps.

In October, SpaceX and T-Mobile were given temporary authority to use Starlink satellites to provide direct-to-cell coverage for cellphones in areas of North Carolina hard-hit by Hurricane Helene.

SpaceX has a number of partnerships with carriers across the world, including KDDI, Optus, One NZ, Switzerland's Salt, Entel, and Rogers.