T-Mobile has launched ‘Connecting Heroes,’ a program to deliver free iPhones and 5G to first responders.

The company is making an effort to support first responders that often have to choose between buying phones and devices, vs life-saving equipment. To help ease their financial burdens, T-Mobile has committed to providing them a free iPhone SE, or half the cost of a flagship phone, as well as free service with 5G access for 10 years.

“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,” said Mike Sievert, CEO of T-Mobile. “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.”

The company’s commitment is a substantial one. It’s estimated that if all first responder agencies take advantage of T-Mobile’s offer, it will save them some $7.7 billion.

It’s nice to see T-Mobile continuing its Un-carrier culture following its merger with Sprint. With the added size, subscriber base, revenue and resources the merger provided, we can’t wait to see what the magenta carrier does next.