To clarify the headline a bit, the connectivity is for "T-Mobile customers in Florida who may lose cellular service due to Hurricane Milton", not connectivity for the hurricane itself, which I assume is doing just fine.

[–] shortwavesurfer@lemmy.zip 8 points 1 month ago

Also be aware that these satellites can broadcast wireless emergency alerts, which will go to all customers, regardless of carrier. I posted more about it on !t_mobile@lemmy.ml

[–] saltesc@lemmy.world 6 points 1 month ago (1 children)

In the US, mobile devices can't make emergency calls using any network? I never noticed, but it's law for everywhere else I know. If there's any network in range, regardless of who owns it or if it's the driven around pop-up towers, anything with an IMEI can use whatever's around for emergency comms.

[–] gazter@aussie.zone 9 points 1 month ago

That's correct, worldwide as far as I know. But doesn't help if there's no network available at all. Usually, multiple carriers will use the same tower, so if that falls over, you're outta luck.

[–] Josey_Wales@lemmy.world 4 points 1 month ago (1 children)

Starlink's Hurricane relief offer is not quite as free as advertised

[–] shortwavesurfer@lemmy.zip 4 points 1 month ago (1 children)

It mentions it in the article but what you bring up is primarily for those who want to sign up for Starlink service where this article is talking about the mobile portion of this which is actually free (for now).

[–] Josey_Wales@lemmy.world -2 points 1 month ago (1 children)

So it’s relevant & related?

[–] tenextrathrills@lemmynsfw.com 2 points 1 month ago

No.