T-Mobile has introduced its “Connecting Heroes” program, offering free 5G connectivity to qualified emergency responders.
The company hinted at a major “Un-carrier” announcement yesterday, and today revealed the details of this initiative.
Connecting Heroes was originally disclosed last year as part of T-Mobile’s merger with Sprint, with a pledge to provide emergency responders up to ten years of complimentary wireless service.
T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert said:
“When we’re at our most vulnerable, first responders are there for us … and they are under more pressure today than ever before. Connecting Heroes is one way we’re saying ‘thank you’ in this critical time.
People who save lives shouldn’t have to choose between life-saving equipment and wireless service. And with Connecting Heroes, they won’t have to. We’re not limiting this program to a few months or a year … first responders can get free service including 5G access, for a full decade. This is the kind of impact the new T-Mobile can have in the world. This is the kind of difference we can make.”
Eligible responders will receive unlimited talk, text, and data—including 5G access at no extra cost—and 1 GB of 4G hotspot data (with speeds dropping to 3G after that allotment).
Video streaming will be capped at 480p. The plan also includes “Mobile Without Borders,” which provides unlimited talk and text across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Responders who want additional benefits can upgrade their plan for $15 per month. The premium option offers 20 GB of mobile hotspot data, basic data connectivity (up to 256 kbps) in more than 210 international destinations, and complimentary Gogo in-flight WiFi.
Mike Mayta, CIO for the City of Wichita, Kansas, commented:
“Access to critical communications is vitally important for our first responders. The more information that we can get to them, the better they’re going to be able to serve the public.”
T-Mobile estimates the program could save first responder agencies roughly $7.7 billion in combined budgets if all eligible organizations participate.
Public and non-profit state and local police, fire, and EMS personnel are eligible to enroll in the Connecting Heroes program.
For information and enrollment details, visit T-Mobile’s official First Responders Connecting Heroes page.
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