T-Mobile's Starlink satellite service launches on July 23
T-Mobile's satellite service, or simply called T-Satellite, with Starlink will be available across the US starting on July 23, even to customers of other carriers. The company said the service can cover 500,000 square miles of area that traditional carriers can't reach, which are mostly remote locations far from cell towers. T-Satellite will support texting for both Android and iOS devices at launch. Android owners will also be able to send MMS, images and short audio clips from the start, while support for iOS devices will follow. On October 1, T-Mobile will enable a data-based satellite service.
Starlink has already 657 direct-to-cell satellites in orbit that can provide coverage for T-Satellite customers. The carrier has been testing the service for a while now, enabling it for use during emergencies in the past, such as when Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida in 2024. In February, T-Mobile launched the beta version of the service's texting feature, which will continue to be free until July when the full service becomes available.
The carrier says the beta program has been "incredibly successful" and has 1.8 million users who've sent out over a million text messages from "areas unreachable by any terrestrial provider," including national parks. In addition, the number of messages received by users was three times the number of messages received, demonstrating that they were connected to the service even while they weren't really using it.
T-Satellite will work with select apps optimized for satellite data to start with, including AccuWeather, AllTrails, Google, WhatsApp, X and more. T-Mobile's Experience Beyond subscribers will be able to access the service for free. Everyone else, including AT&T and Verizon subscribers, can pay $10 a month for access. T-Satellite will also roll out free 911 texts even to non-subscribers and regardless of the carrier later this year. If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Hawaiian Electric under fire for service issues and high costs
HONOLULU (KHON2) — State lawmakers grilled Hawaiian Electric and the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) on Monday over rising electricity costs and what they called unreliable service, during a hearing examining the state's performance-based regulation system. Deadly force 'justified' in 2023 Pearl City unattended police rifle case The system, known as PBR, was implemented in 2021 to encourage utilities to improve performance while controlling costs. But lawmakers expressed concern that the policy has yet to deliver meaningful benefits to consumers. About 80,000 Hawaii residents are considered 'energy burdened,' meaning they spend a disproportionate share of their income on electricity, according to lawmakers. Nearly 13,000 customers were disconnected in 2023 for nonpayment. 'Undoubtedly the rates are going to go up and we're getting poor service,' said Sen. Glenn Wakai, (D), the Senate Majority Floor Leader. 'How are you going to reconcile this for the public?'PUC Chairman Leo Asuncion responded that the commission has opened a docket specifically to review the disconnection process used by Hawaiian Electric and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC). Hawaiian Electric Vice President Jim Kelly testified that the utility posted a $1.2 billion loss last year. 'That was our profit—$1.2 billion loss,' he said. 'I just wanted to have that correct for the record.' Wakai pointed out that part of the loss was related to wildfires, which Kelly confirmed. 'We're talking about rates—where the public is paying for power, and it's always disrupted—and it's three times the national average,' Wakai added. During the hearing, lawmakers also revealed the existence of a whistleblower complaint alleging internal staff and morale issues at the PUC, which they said could be hampering the commission's ability to effectively regulate key industries. Asuncion denied the allegations raised in the complaint. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news The hearing marked the latest in a series of state-level efforts to scrutinize Hawaii's energy policies amid mounting public frustration over costs and service reliability. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Time Business News
2 hours ago
- Time Business News
With the Best Augmented Reality Development Company
Augmented reality development company is no longer just a futuristic concept. It's here—redefining how we experience digital content. From Snapchat filters to interactive AR shopping, it has made its way into our daily lives. With an expected market size of over $100 billion by 2030, AR is fast becoming a cornerstone of digital transformation across healthcare, retail, education, gaming, and manufacturing. AR overlays digital information on the real world—making everyday tasks, from shopping to learning, more interactive and engaging. Table of Contents Introduction to Augmented Reality What is an Augmented Reality Development Company? Core Augmented Reality Services Offered Importance of AR App Development Services in 2025 and Beyond Top Use Cases of Augmented Reality Choosing the Best Augmented Reality App Development Company Digitrends: Leading the Charge in AR Innovation Future Trends in Augmented Reality Development Benefits of Partnering with an AR Development Company Conclusion and Final Thoughts An AR development company specializes in building software and apps that integrate virtual elements into the physical world using AR technology. These companies are responsible for AR content strategy, 3D modeling, mobile app integration, and real-time rendering. Creating AR mobile applications Developing marker-based or markerless AR solutions UI/UX optimization for AR experiences Supporting multiple platforms like iOS, Android, ARKit, ARCore, and WebAR Healthcare Retail & eCommerce Real Estate Manufacturing Education Gaming AR mobile apps are the heart of augmented reality services. These applications allow users to interact with digital content overlaid on the real world via their smartphones or tablets. A skilled augmented reality development company ensures: Seamless integration of 3D models, animations, and interactive elements. Real-time responsiveness and minimal lag. Integration with device cameras, GPS, and motion sensors for dynamic AR experiences. Use of native tools like ARKit (for iOS) and ARCore (for Android) to enhance functionality. These apps may range from virtual try-ons in fashion to AR games or educational simulations—each tailored for specific industry needs. There are two primary types of AR technologies that companies build: Requires a physical image, QR code, or symbol (the marker) to trigger an AR experience. Common in marketing campaigns, product packaging, or museum guides. Offers high accuracy in spatial placement and easier tracking. This technology is often referred to as SLAM-based AR (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) or sometimes as location-aware AR. Uses the device's sensors and environment mapping in place of predefined markers. Ideal for real estate walkthroughs, interior design previews, or AR navigation. Top AR development companies can build both depending on the use case, helping businesses decide which type fits their audience best. Augmented Reality is only as good as the user experience it delivers. AR UI/UX design must balance physical and digital elements without overwhelming the user. Developers focus on intuitive gestures , natural interactions , and spatial awareness . , , and . The layout must guide users where to look, tap, or move without needing tutorials. Accessibility features like contrast, font size, or voice instructions ensure AR works for all users. User satisfaction and retention are directly tied to how comfortable and immersive the AR interface feels. That's why UX is not an afterthought—it's a priority. A professional AR development company ensures compatibility across all major platforms: iOS (ARKit): Apple's native AR framework provides advanced tracking, facial recognition, and real-world interaction features. Apple's native AR framework provides advanced tracking, facial recognition, and real-world interaction features. Android (ARCore): Google offers a platform for developing AR apps on Android, featuring motion tracking and environmental recognition. Google offers a platform for developing AR apps on Android, featuring motion tracking and environmental recognition. WebAR: Allows users to experience AR directly from a web browser, without downloading an app. This reduces friction and improves reach. Allows users to experience AR directly from a web browser, without downloading an app. This reduces friction and improves reach. Cross-platform Unity/Unreal Engine apps: These are essential for companies wanting to maintain a single codebase across iOS, Android, and VR devices. No matter what device a customer is using, this multiplatform support enables businesses to reach as many users as possible. AR is revolutionizing healthcare in several critical ways: Surgical Planning & Navigation: AR visualizes organs and veins over patients in real time, aiding in precision surgeries. AR visualizes organs and veins over patients in real time, aiding in precision surgeries. Medical Training: Medical students can perform virtual dissections or learn anatomy through 3D AR overlays. Medical students can perform virtual dissections or learn anatomy through 3D AR overlays. Patient Education: Doctors can show patients what's happening inside their body using interactive 3D visuals. Doctors can show patients what's happening inside their body using interactive 3D visuals. Mental Health Therapy: AR is used in treating phobias and PTSD through exposure therapy in controlled environments. Why AR is seen as a vital and transformative technology in healthcare. AR enhances the shopping experience by bridging online and offline worlds: Virtual Try-Ons: AR technology lets users preview how clothes, glasses, or makeup will look on them, helping them make more confident purchase decisions. AR technology lets users preview how clothes, glasses, or makeup will look on them, helping them make more confident purchase decisions. Product Previews: Visualize furniture in your home or test a paint color on your wall—right from your phone. Visualize furniture in your home or test a paint color on your wall—right from your phone. Interactive Catalogs: Print materials can trigger AR demos of products or explainer videos. This improves profitability by lowering product return rates and raising conversion rates. AR offers dynamic, immersive experiences in real estate: Virtual Property Tours: Explore a home or apartment remotely using your phone, no matter where you are. Explore a home or apartment remotely using your phone, no matter where you are. Architectural Visualization: Using AR, blueprints can be turned into interactive 3D models. Using AR, blueprints can be turned into interactive 3D models. Home Customization: Clients can change flooring, wall colors, or furniture in AR to personalize their future space. This gives realtors a cutting-edge sales tool and aids buyers in making well-informed decisions. In manufacturing and industry, AR is a powerful operational tool: Maintenance & Repair: Workers receive step-by-step repair instructions overlaid on machinery through smart glasses. Workers receive step-by-step repair instructions overlaid on machinery through smart glasses. Assembly Line Training: AR simulations speed up onboarding without risking live equipment. AR simulations speed up onboarding without risking live equipment. Quality Assurance: Inspectors use AR for real-time scanning and checking defects with precision. It reduces human error, cuts downtime, and boosts workforce efficiency—making factories smarter. AR makes learning more visual, interactive, and engaging: Interactive Textbooks: Kids can see dinosaurs come alive from their book pages. Kids can see dinosaurs come alive from their book pages. STEM Learning: Simulate chemistry experiments or mechanical concepts without a lab. Simulate chemistry experiments or mechanical concepts without a lab. Language & History: Explore ancient ruins or speak with a virtual character using AR overlays. The use of augmented reality in the classroom is crucial nowadays. Gaming is the most popular and well-funded AR domain: Immersive AR Games: Titles like Pokémon GO proved AR can create massive global phenomena. Titles like Pokémon GO proved AR can create massive global phenomena. Multiplayer Experiences: Compete with others in your surroundings with location-based AR games. Compete with others in your surroundings with location-based AR games. Mixed Reality Worlds: Combine real-world environments with digital storytelling. Gamers demand more immersion, and AR delivers experiences beyond the screen—transforming your world into the game. Through augmented reality app development services, companies offer tailored apps that provide users with immersive AR experiences. Applications for iOS and Android are included in this. Interactive try-ons for fashion and cosmetics. Imagine trying on sunglasses virtually—powered by AR. Used for employee training, medical simulations, and industrial workshops to enhance safety and retention. AR experiences accessible directly through browsers—no app downloads needed. This is rapidly gaining popularity. High-quality 3D modeling is essential for any successful AR experience. Companies offer modeling, animation, and rendering services. Revolutionizing Business Operations Across Industries Companies investing in augmented reality app development services are preparing for the next wave of consumer interaction—immersive and intelligent. Personalized Experiences AR allows businesses to deliver hyper-personalized content. A furniture retailer uses augmented reality to let customers preview how a sofa would appear in their actual home environment. Boosting Engagement Research indicates that augmented reality can enhance consumer engagement by nearly 70% over conventional media channels. Competitive Advantage With major players like Apple and Meta diving into AR, it's vital for startups and enterprises to align with experienced AR development companies. 5. Top Use Cases of Augmented Reality A. Education & eLearning AR textbooks and interactive learning apps boost comprehension and retention among students. B. Healthcare AR is revolutionizing surgeries, diagnostics, and even patient education. Doctors can visualize internal organs in 3D. C. Field Services & Maintenance Technicians can use AR glasses to get step-by-step repair instructions, reducing downtime and human error. D. Marketing & Advertising AR-powered campaigns grab more attention and offer interactive brand experiences. 6. Choosing the Best Augmented Reality App Development Company What to Look For: 1. Technical Expertise Ensure the company is proficient in AR SDKs like ARKit, ARCore, Vuforia, Unity, and Unreal Engine. 2. Proven Portfolio A strong portfolio demonstrates real-world success across different industries. 3. Client Testimonials Look for real feedback, video testimonials, and case studies. 4. Customization Capabilities Top AR development companies offer custom solutions aligned with your brand and goals. 5. Post-Launch Support Augmented reality is evolving; regular updates and bug fixing are essential. 7. Digitrends: Leading the Charge in AR Innovation DigiTrends is a leading name in digital innovation and mobile solutions, steadily earning a reputation as one of the top augmented reality app development companies. Why Choose Digitrends? Cutting-edge AR tech expertise Cross-platform compatibility Scalable and secure AR solutions Agile methodology with continuous client involvement Their Key AR Services Include: Mobile AR development for retail, health, and gaming 3D modeling and animation AR-based training simulators AR integration for eCommerce platforms 8. Future Trends in Augmented Reality Development A. Spatial Computing AR apps are getting more advanced with environment understanding—detecting depth, planes, and spatial audio. B. AI + AR AI-powered AR enables smarter content delivery based on user behavior and real-time data. C. 5G Empowerment With 5G, AR apps can stream high-resolution content instantly, without heavy local processing. D. AR Glasses & Wearables Companies like Apple and Meta are working on AR glasses, pushing the future away from phones. E. Web-Based AR Growth More companies are switching to WebAR for wider audience reach without platform limitations. 9. Benefits of Partnering with an AR Development Company 1. Cost Efficiency Hiring an in-house AR team is expensive. A specialized agency provides end-to-end development at a fraction of the cost. 2. Access to Talent Top augmented reality development companies have teams of designers, developers, and strategists who deliver quality fast. 3. Faster Time to Market With their deep expertise and flexible workflows, they outperform internal teams in project delivery speed. 4. Innovation and R&D They stay updated with the latest tech stacks, enabling clients to stay ahead of the curve. In today's competitive landscape, augmented reality is no longer optional—it's essential. Businesses that adopt AR now will be the ones shaping customer expectations tomorrow. No matter your industry—be it retail, healthcare, education, or a startup—collaborating with a leading AR app development company keeps your brand future-ready and competitive. Partner with industry leaders like Digitrends and unlock the potential of augmented reality development services today. The future is no longer a distant concept—AR is the present. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
USA Today
4 hours ago
- USA Today
AT&T agrees to $177 million settlement over data breach. When you could see payment
Current and former AT&T customers may be eligible for a payout from a $177 million settlement connected to two data breaches. A U.S. judge granted preliminary approval on June 20 to the settlement that resolves lawsuits against AT&T over the 2019 and 2024 incidents. The company announced in July 2024 that call and text message records of nearly all of its cellular customers were exposed. In March of the same year, AT&T said it was investigating a data set released on the "dark web." AT&T said in a statement to Reuters that it denied allegations it was "responsible for these criminal acts." "We have agreed to this settlement to avoid the expense and uncertainty of protracted litigation," the company added. Here's what to know about the AT&T data breach settlement. How much can I claim from the AT&T settlement? AT&T has agreed to pay up to $2,500 or $5,000 to customers who suffered losses that are "fairly traceable" to the incidents, depending on which one affected the customer. The company is to create two funds for payouts: allocating $149 million for those affected by the 2024 breach and $28 million for those affected by the 2019 breach, according to court documents. After payments are made for direct losses, the remaining funds will be distributed to customers whose personal information was accessed. The company told Reuters that it expects payments to be issued early next year. When will I be paid from the AT&T settlement? Court documents indicate that a notification program for the settlement will begin Aug. 4 and will be completed Oct. 17. The deadline to submit claim forms is listed as Nov. 18 and a final approval hearing will be held on Dec. 3. What happened in the AT&T breaches? The company said in a 2024 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission it learned in April that customer data was illegally downloaded from an AT&T workspace on a third-party cloud platform. AT&T disclosed that its call logs were copied from its workspace on a Snowflake cloud platform covering about six months of customer call and text data from 2022 from nearly all its customers. Analysis of the incident announced in March done by the company suggested that approximately 7.6 million current account holders and 65.4 million former account holders had information appear on the "dark web." The information, including addresses, Social Security numbers and passcodes, appeared to be from 2019 and earlier, the BBC reported at the time of the announcement. Contributing: Gabe Hauari, USA TODAY; Reuters
