T-Mobile has introduced new Internet Backup plans to provide reliable connectivity for homes and small businesses during internet outages. The launch, however, coincided with the company’s largest outage of 2024, disrupting millions of users for nearly five hours across various parts of the United States.
The irony of the timing wasn’t lost on many, as the outage itself underscored the need for dependable backup solutions in today’s digitally connected world.
Ensuring connectivity during outages
T-Mobile’s Internet Backup plans are designed to complement traditional cable or fibre internet services rather than replace them. These plans offer 130GB of 5G data per month, which can keep a household or small business connected for up to seven days during an internet service provider (ISP) outage.
To address prolonged disruptions, T-Mobile now includes three free 130GB data passes each year, which can be activated when outages last longer than usual. These additional data passes are valid for three days or until the allocated data is consumed.
The setup process is quick and easy. Configuring the T-Mobile 5G gateway takes less than 15 minutes. This ensures a smooth transition to backup connectivity when the primary service is offline. There are no hidden fees, and the gateway is provided at no extra cost as part of the plan.
Portable power solutions for added resilience
To enhance the backup experience, T-Mobile is also offering new customers the Nimble Champ Pro 20k 65W portable power station at a discounted price of US$49.99. This device can power the 5G gateway and other electronics during blackouts, ensuring uninterrupted internet access in times of crisis.
Outage highlights vulnerabilities
The massive outage on the launch day, which impacted millions for hours, was a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities even large telecom providers face. T-Mobile, known for promoting its 5G network as robust and reliable, was left grappling with widespread service disruptions.
In a world increasingly reliant on remote work, virtual learning, and online business operations, the incident sharply focused on the critical importance of Internet access. The timing of the outage not only drew attention to the challenges but emphasised the relevance of T-Mobile’s new Internet Backup plans for businesses and households alike.
