Satellite connectivity is one of the latest advancements in smartphone technology, offering users the ability to stay connected even in remote areas where traditional cellular networks fail. While this feature has been around for some time now, this technology is mostly seen in premium devices. But how does it work, which phones support it, and do you really need it? Read on to find out.
1. Which Phones Support Satellite Connectivity in 2025?
As of 2025, satellite connectivity isn’t a universal feature but it is slowly being adopted by premium phones. It is currently being offered by a couple of brands, so let’s check them out:
Samsung
Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 series brought support for satellite messaging. This was initially rumored to arrive with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, but it finally made an appearance with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy powered S25 series. But there’s a catch, the company didn’t widely market this feature since it isn’t available to everyone. Samsung only offers satellite connectivity with one satellite operator, Skylo (which is only in partnership in the US with Verizon).
Apple
Apple is another brand that offers satellite connectivity, allowing you to send SOS messages from the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 series. The service is more widely available on the newer models, unlike Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series.
Huawei
Huawei first introduced satellite connectivity with the launch of its flagship Mate 50 series. The lineup supported short text messages via the BeiDou satellite network. This was later upgraded to include audio calls in the newer Mate 60 Pro. The newer Pura 70 Ultra supports satellite communication which brings image sharing without an internet connection.
With the Pixel 9 series, Google also joined the satellite communication race. It offers emergency SOS messaging in collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink system.
Xiaomi
The Chinese tech giant’s Xiaomi 15 Pro, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and MIX Fold 4 are two models that bring support for two-way satellite communication. So you get access to network access even in remote areas. The upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to feature this technology as well.
There are a bunch of other brands that also support satellite communication like Oppo (Find X8 Pro Satellite Edition), Nubia (Z60S Pro), Honor (X60), and others.
2. Do You Really Need Satellite Connectivity?
Satellite connectivity isn’t a feature that one would use every day. But depending on your lifestyle, it could be very important. For instance, f you frequently hike, camp, or travel to remote areas, satellite connectivity can be a lifesaver in emergencies. It also ensures that travellers can have some peace of mind in areas with unreliable cellular networks.
However, However, it’s not essential for everyone. The technology serves no purpose to urban users and can bring additional costs to the customers (if the service has a subscription model). Most implementations are restricted to text messaging or SOS alerts since voice calls and internet access have yet to hit the mainstream. So for now, whether you need it depends on how often you find yourself off the grid.
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