T-Mobile: Plans, Coverage & Deals
About T-Mobile
T-Mobile is one of the four major US network operators, building and running its own nationwide cellular network rather than leasing access from another company. It owns spectrum, operates towers, and sells wholesale network access to many smaller carriers. T-Mobile is known for its "Un-carrier" approach and its large 5G footprint, which is the widest of the three nationwide networks.
You can get T-Mobile's coverage for less through independent MVNOs like US Mobile, and Tello, or through T-Mobile's own brands Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile.
T-Mobile Plans
Essentials Saver
T-Mobile coverage
Essentials
T-Mobile coverage
Experience More
T-Mobile coverage
Experience Beyond
T-Mobile coverage
Better Value
T-Mobile coverage
T-Mobile Data Plans
T-Mobile Home Internet Plus
T-Mobile coverage
T-Mobile Home Internet Unlimited
T-Mobile coverage
T-Mobile Cellular Router Plans
T-Mobile Home Internet Plus
T-Mobile coverage
T-Mobile Home Internet Unlimited
T-Mobile coverage
T-Mobile Coverage
T-Mobile
Network
62.7 %
Total coverage
1,962,291
Total square miles covered
99%
Total population covered
52.8 %
5G coverage
1,653,294
5G square miles covered
332 million people (97%)
5G population covered
T-Mobile Add-ons
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T-Mobile Frequently Asked Questions
What is T-Mobile?
T-Mobile is a mobile network operator, or MNO, that runs its own nationwide cellular network. It is one of the three largest wireless carriers in the United States, alongside Verizon and AT&T.
Who owns T-Mobile?
T-Mobile US is majority-owned by Deutsche Telekom, the German telecommunications company, which holds just over half of its shares (52.8%).
When was T-Mobile founded?
The company was founded in 1994 as VoiceStream Wireless. After Deutsche Telekom acquired it in 2001, it was rebranded as T-Mobile USA in 2002. It later merged with MetroPCS in 2013 and with Sprint in 2020, which made it one of the largest carriers in the country.
What network does T-Mobile use for coverage?
T-Mobile uses its own network. As an MNO, it owns the spectrum, towers, and infrastructure that carry its service. You can explore its footprint on the T-Mobile coverage map.
Does T-Mobile have good coverage?
T-Mobile has strong nationwide coverage and the largest 5G network of the three national carriers, though its rural reach has historically trailed AT&T and Verizon in some areas. Coverage depends on where you are, so check the T-Mobile coverage map for your location before deciding.
What features does T-Mobile support?
T-Mobile supports a full set of features, including:
- VoLTE
- WiFi calling
- Visual voicemail
- MMS (multimedia messaging service)
- eSIM
- Mobile hotspot
- Domestic roaming
- Cellular smartwatches
- Managing multiple lines from a single account
- International calling
- Canada and Mexico roaming
- International data roaming
- Multi-line discounts
Does T-Mobile support international calling or data roaming?
Yes. T-Mobile supports both international calling and international data roaming. Many of its plans include some international data and texting abroad at no extra cost, with paid passes available for extra high-speed data, international calling, and extra international hotspot data.
Does T-Mobile support hotspot devices?
Yes. T-Mobile offers data plans for dedicated hotspot devices.
Does T-Mobile support tablets?
Yes. T-Mobile offers data plans you can add for tablets. You can add an unlimited tablet line for $20 per month on Essentials and Experience More. Experience Beyond offers tablet lines for just $5.
Does T-Mobile support smartwatches?
Yes. T-Mobile supports cellular smartwatches on its Experience More and Experience Beyond plans. Smartwatch lines are $12 on Experience More and $5 on Experience Beyond.
What is T-Mobile's device unlock policy?
A device must be active on the T-Mobile network for at least 40 days on the requesting line before it is eligible to be unlocked. If the device was financed or leased through T-Mobile, all payments must be satisfied and the device paid in full. For a canceled account, the balance must be zero.
How do you contact T-Mobile customer service?
You can reach T-Mobile customer service by calling (833) 628-7685 or by dialing 611 from your T-Mobile phone. You can also chat with customer service using the live chat on the website or the chat feature in the T-Life app.
What phones work on T-Mobile?
T-Mobile works with unlocked phones compatible with its network bands, including recent iPhone and Android models. You can bring your own compatible device or buy one from T-Mobile, then activate with a SIM or eSIM.