As satellite connectivity has started to become a more standard offering in smartphones, Samsung is finally adding proper support with its Galaxy S26 series, as well as older Galaxy devices.
Apple started the trend of satellite connectivity in smartphones, allowing users to send out emergency messages as far back as 2022’s iPhone 14 series. Google followed with its Pixel devices in 2024’s Pixel 9 family. Samsung, though, has been largely silent on the matter for a while now.
Finally, it’s happening, for real.
The Galaxy S26 series – S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra – all feature satellite connectivity in major markets such as the US, Europe, and more. Samsung says:
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the continued expansion of satellite communication capabilities for select Galaxy smartphones — including the Galaxy S26 series — through ongoing partnerships with leading global telecommunications operators in North America, Europe, and Japan. This expansion reflects Samsung’s continued commitment to enhancing user safety and providing seamless mobile experiences through next-generation connectivity — particularly in the era of AI as everyday infrastructure.
The footnote here is that this is dependent on your carrier. But, also, Samsung isn’t just adding support in the Galaxy S26 series. The company touts several partnerships that are bringing satellite services of some kind to Galaxy S26 and older Galaxy devices in several major markets.
- T-Mobile: T911, text, and data via StarLink on “select Galaxy flagship and Galaxy A series models released after the Galaxy S21 series”
- Verizon: eSOS and text on “all Galaxy flagship models following the Galaxy S25 series”
- AT&T: Coming soon
- Virgin Media O2 (UK): Satellite communication on “select Galaxy smartphones”
- MasOrange (Spain): “Trials begin in March”
- Vodafone (UK): Coming soon
- KDDI (Japan): Text, data on “Galaxy S22 and later flagship and Galaxy A series devices”
- SoftBank/docomo (Japan): “Select Galaxy flagship and Galaxy A series devices” later in 2026
- Rakuten Mobile (Japan): Coming soon
More on Samsung:
- The Galaxy S26 in ‘Cobalt Violet’ has a bit of an identity crisis [Gallery]
- The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the only model I’d buy, and that’s not right
- Galaxy S26 trade-in values are best for Galaxy upgraders, not iPhone switchers – up to $900 off
Follow Ben: Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
