The latest development in cellular technology is the inclusion of satellite messaging feature in high-end mobile phones. This feature, initially limited to emergency situations only, has now been extended to non-emergency text messages. Verizon launched this service in the U.S. as the first major carrier, allowing customers with Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S25 variants to exchange texts via satellite to any phone number. This functionality is particularly valuable in regions where traditional cellular coverage is not available.
Smaller carriers like Spectrum Mobile and Xfinity Mobile, in the footsteps of Verizon, have also indicated that they will extend satellite messaging to their customers with the same devices. Those services are founded upon Skylo, a non-terrestrial network operator, and will begin with emergency messaging with the aim of extending normal SMS text messaging within a few weeks’ time.
Satellite technology use in smartphones is a big achievement in mobile connectivity. It is an answer to a critical communication need in remote or disaster zones where cellular services are not available. Apple had earlier rolled out satellite messaging capability in its latest iPhones, but it was limited to emergency services initially. With the release of iOS 18, Apple extended the capability to include non-emergency messaging.
Verizon’s satellite text messaging service is offered for free to its users and works in collaboration with AST SpaceMobile. The technology consists of using satellites as mobile masts to make phones connect when they are out of terrestrial range. The service has its constraints, as the messages transmitted over satellite are subject to delay depending on the distance the data travels and lack features like typing indication and multimedia.
T-Mobile is also working on satellite messaging through collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink. The service is currently available for free but will eventually become subscription-based later this year. AT&T is also collaborating with AST SpaceMobile to further satellite connectivity, which can even facilitate video calls and sharing multimedia in the future.
The expansion of satellite messaging capability reflects a greater trend in the telecommunication marketplace, where carriers are using space technology to reach further and improve coverage in areas not served by traditional networks. With more carriers and devices supporting satellite messaging, the technology will likely go mainstream, offering consumers greater flexibility and reliability in communications selection.
Beyond direct personal communication, satellite technology promises to facilitate essential infrastructure and emergency services. It can provide back-up connectivity in the case of natural disasters or in remote areas where building traditional cellular infrastructure is not economically feasible. With future development of the technology, it will be expected to bridge the connectivity gap throughout the world.
