Samsung seems to be getting closer to adding satellite communication to its Galaxy smartphone lineup. Android Authority discovered code strings related to this in mobile apps, strongly hinting that Samsung Galaxy phones could soon receive this upgrade.
To be specific, mentions of “satellite mode” and “emergency texts via satellite” were found in Samsung’s Emergency SOS, Messages, and Phone apps, respectively. This hints that the tech giant is preparing to enter the satellite connectivity race started by Apple. However, it’s still yet not clear when the feature will be released or the compatible phone models.
Code in Emergency SOS App
<string name="satelliteText">Emergency texts via satellite</string>
<string name="satelliteHeading">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</string>
Code in Samsung Messages App
<string name="satellite_network_mode_title">Satellite mode not supported</string>
<string name="samsung_message_do_not_provide_satellite_network_mode">Samsung Messages doesn't support satellite messaging. To send and receive texts via satellite, you need to make Google Messages your default messaging app.</string>
Code in Phone App
<string name="sat_mode_inline_cue_text">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.</string>
<string name="sat_mode_send_message">Send message</string>
<string name="sat_mode_waring_dialog_message">You can send and receive text messages in Satellite mode. Emergency calls may still connect if a mobile network is available near you.</string>According to Android Authority, the feature might debut with the Android 15 operating system, though integrating it into Samsung’s One UI 7 interface could take longer.
Samsung introducing satellite communication in its phones wouldn’t be that surprising. The feature has been rumored ever since Apple introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14.
Samsung executive Park Yong-in even promised two-way satellite connectivity for Galaxy phones in 2024, yet the feature is still absent from the latest Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6. It’s possible that a software update could enable satellite connectivity on these devices.
Unlike Apple’s limited emergency messaging focus, Samsung’s satellite connectivity is rumored to go beyond emergencies, allowing users to send messages through any app.
Interestingly, Google Pixel phones have also shown signs of satellite connectivity, although the feature is active for Pixel phones as well. This collective evidence suggests satellite messaging for Android phones, including Galaxy models, could be available in the coming months.
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