T-Mobile’s Text to 911 Feature Is Now Free for Everyone.
If you find yourself without cell service in an emergency, being able to call 911 can be lifesaving. Many older phone owners can now send emergency text messages to 911 for free through T-Mobile’s Starlink-powered network. On Wednesday, T-Mobile announced it would open the “Text to 911” feature, which allows users to send emergency text messages through their phone’s built-in messaging app while out of coverage, to everyone, including AT&T and Verizon subscribers, for free.
It’s worth noting that many iPhone and Pixel users already have access to satellite SOS, regardless of carrier, as these features are built into the new devices.Apple’s Emergency SOS feature is available on the iPhone 14 and later, while Google’s satellite SOS feature is available on the Pixel 9 and later (except the 9A). These devices use the built-in features by default. Verizon also supports satellite SOS for compatible Samsung Galaxy phones.
Thus, T-Mobile’s free service is primarily useful for owners of older iPhones and Pixels, as well as Motorola and Samsung devices on the AT&T network. If you’re not a T-Mobile subscriber, your device must be unlocked and have an available eSIM to activate SMS to 911. Once connected, you can send an SMS to 911 for emergency services, as well as to 988 Lifeline and 838255 for veterans’ services. T-Mobile subscribers can also contact customer service by dialing 611.
How to subscribe to 911 SMS messages
If you have T-Mobile, you can add text-to-911 service by logging into your account and selecting the appropriate option under “Manage Data and Additional Options.” Otherwise, you’ll need to register on the T-Mobile website . Once registered, your phone will automatically connect to the emergency network (T-Mobile TXT911) when no other network is available. Registration is required.
To use the service, type a message in your device’s text app, enter 911 in the phone number field, and tap “Send.” Your location will automatically be sent to emergency services.