Although Samsung has previously provided phones that support satellite communications, it did not explicitly mention this when unveiling the Galaxy S26 series recently. However, the company finally settled the controversy and officially confirmed that the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra all support satellite communication.
Samsung explained that expanding satellite communications support with the Galaxy S26 series reflects its continued commitment to enhancing user security and providing a seamless communication experience even in difficult circumstances.
The satellite calling feature allows users to send text messages and data, as well as request assistance in emergency situations, when traditional networks are not available. Thus, it provides an additional layer of safety in remote areas or during natural disasters.
Won-Jun Choi, COO and Head of R&D for Mobile Experience at Samsung, said that the company has a strong heritage in wireless communications technologies, and always strives to stay at the forefront of innovation by collaborating with global partners.
He added that satellite communications have become an important element in the modern communications landscape, stressing Samsung’s commitment to ensuring Galaxy users have access to reliable means of communication when needed.
In terms of partnerships, Samsung has entered into agreements with a number of telecom operators in North America, Europe and Japan to provide satellite communications support on some Galaxy phones, including the Galaxy S26 series.
In the US, Samsung has teamed up with Verizon to offer eSOS emergency services and satellite text messaging on its flagship phones starting with the S25 series, and is also working with AT&T to support the feature on Galaxy devices.
Some flagship Galaxy phones and the Galaxy A series launched after the Galaxy S21 series also support T911, messaging and data services over the T-Mobile network.
In Europe, Samsung is cooperating with Virgin Media O2 to support satellite communications on specific devices, in addition to a partnership with Vodafone, with the launch of joint experiments with MasOrange in Spain during the month of March.
In Japan, Samsung has partnered with KDDI to provide satellite messaging and data services, as well as earthquake and tsunami warning system support for the Galaxy A and Galaxy S22 series and beyond. It is also working with SoftBank, Docomo, and Rakuten Mobile to expand support for the feature on various Galaxy phones.
