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Samsung Expands Satellite Connectivity to Galaxy S26 Series and Select Older Devices

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Samsung Satellite Connectivity Expansion

Samsung Electronics has announced a significant stride in mobile technology, expanding satellite communication capabilities for its upcoming Galaxy S26 series and a range of older Galaxy smartphones. This initiative is set to enhance user safety and mobile experiences through next-generation connectivity.

"This development reflects a commitment to enhancing user safety and providing seamless mobile experiences," Samsung stated, marking its entry into providing such capabilities following similar introductions by other smartphone manufacturers.

The new satellite services are slated to roll out in major markets, including the US, Europe, and Japan. Functionality is dependent on specific carrier partnerships established by Samsung.

Device and Market Availability

Satellite connectivity will be a core feature of the new Galaxy S26 series, encompassing the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra models. In a move to extend these advanced features, select older Galaxy devices will also receive support:

  • T-Mobile (US): Supports select Galaxy flagship and Galaxy A series models released after the Galaxy S21 series.
  • Verizon (US): Will include all Galaxy flagship models following the Galaxy S25 series.
  • KDDI (Japan): Extends support to Galaxy S22 and later flagship and Galaxy A series devices.
  • SoftBank/docomo (Japan): Planned for select Galaxy flagship and Galaxy A series devices later in 2026.

Availability is confirmed for key global markets such as the US, Europe, and Japan.

Carrier Partnerships and Services

Samsung has forged partnerships with several global telecommunications operators to facilitate the rollout of these services. The specific offerings are contingent on these carrier agreements:

  • T-Mobile (US): Will offer T911, text, and data services via StarLink.
  • Verizon (US): To provide eSOS and text capabilities.
  • AT&T (US): Services are announced as coming soon.
  • Virgin Media O2 (UK): Will offer satellite communication on select Galaxy smartphones.
  • MasOrange (Spain): Trials for satellite communication are scheduled to begin in March.
  • Vodafone (UK): Services are announced as coming soon.
  • KDDI (Japan): Will offer text and data services.
  • SoftBank/docomo (Japan): Support is planned for select Galaxy flagship and A series devices later in 2026.
  • Rakuten Mobile (Japan): Services are announced as coming soon.

Industry Context

Samsung's foray into satellite communication capabilities aligns with a broader trend in the smartphone industry. Apple was an early adopter, introducing satellite connectivity for emergency messaging with its iPhone 14 series in 2022. Google followed suit, bringing similar capabilities to its Pixel 9 family in 2024. This development positions Samsung competitively within the evolving landscape of mobile connectivity.