After Apple introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14 for emergency messaging, Samsung was rumored to be developing a similar feature for the Galaxy S23. However, the feature never arrived and didn't come with the Galaxy S24 either. The feature seems to be in development for the Galaxy S25.
Galaxy S25 satellite connectivity could happen for emergencies
Samsung seems to be readying the satellite connectivity feature for calling and messaging in emergencies. The feature was spotted in the stock Emergency SOS, Messages, and Phone apps through code strings. Here is what Android Authority was able to find out:
- Emergency SOS (Emergency Texts Via Satellite): If you call emergency services when you’re out of range or not connected to a mobile network, we’ll connect you via satellite so you can send an emergency text.
- Samsung Messages (Satellite mode not supported): Samsung Messages doesn't support satellite messaging. To send and receive texts via satellite, you need to make Google Messages your default messaging app.
- Samsung Phone: You're in satellite mode. You can send text messages, including to 911. Emergency calls may still connect if a mobile network is available near you. You can send and receive text messages in Satellite mode. Emergency calls may still connect if a mobile network is available near you.
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This information was found in version 15.5.00.14 of the Emergency SOS app, version 15.5.10.39 of the Samsung Messages app, and version 15.2.80 of the stock Samsung Phone app.
The Exynos 2400 chipset already features NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) support, but Samsung chose not to use it. Samsung MX boss TM Roh said in the past that Samsung is waiting for the satellite connectivity ecosystem to mature before bringing that feature to its smartphones.
While Samsung fans have been burned in the past by satellite connectivity rumors for the Galaxy S23 and the Galaxy S24, it appears that Samsung hasn't given up on that feature yet and could deliver early next year.
