Samsung confirms satellite connectivity for Galaxy S26 and older Galaxy devices
Source: 9to5Google
Samsung adds satellite connectivity to Galaxy S26 series and older devices
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 began the trend of satellite connectivity in smartphones, allowing users to send emergency messages as far back as the 2022 iPhone 14 series. Google followed with its Pixel 9 family in 2024. Samsung, however, has been largely silent on the matter—until now.
The Galaxy S26 series (S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra) will 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.
Note: Availability depends on carrier support.
Samsung isn’t only adding support for the Galaxy S26 series. The company touts several partnerships that are bringing satellite services of some kind to the S26 and older Galaxy devices in several major markets.
Carrier partnerships
- 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