Verizon launches satellite texting service, Comcast and Spectrum follow

We've all been there—stuck in a dead zone with no cell service, trying desperately to text for help or just to let someone know we're running late. Well, those days might be numbered as satellite messaging becomes the next big thing in telecommunications.

Historically, satellite communication has been reserved for specialized uses or emergencies. However, Verizon, one of the largest telecom companies in the U.S., recently announced the launch of its non-emergency satellite texting service.

This comes less than a month after AT&T and Verizon successfully completed the first satellite-based video call in partnership with AST SpaceMobile, a space-based cellular broadband network.

AT&T and Verizon complete the first satellite video call

This could make satellite connectivity a more mainstream alternative in the U.S.

TechloyLouis Eriakha

Now, Verizon's satellite messaging service allows users to send texts to anyone using their Google Pixel 9 series device or Samsung Galaxy S25 series smartphone—sorry, iPhone 16 users. Using this, customers can connect to satellites when they're outside the reach of traditional cellular networks, making it the first in the U.S. to offer this capability for everyday use.

The service upgrades are already rolling out and will continue over the next two weeks. Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 series users on Verizon should receive a software update to enable this feature. So, if you have one of these devices, keep an eye out for updates in the coming days.

Verizon isn't alone in this satellite messaging revolution. Just one day after Verizon's announcement, Comcast and Charter (through their mobile services Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile) jumped on the bandwagon.

For now, they're offering satellite-based emergency messaging for Galaxy S25 and Pixel 9 owners as well, powered by the same non-terrestrial network service provider Skylo that worked with Google on the Pixel 9's Satellite SOS feature. But, in the coming weeks, Comcast's Xfinity Mobile and Charter's Spectrum Mobile plan to let users send and receive regular SMS text messages over satellite.

Google Pixel 9 rolls out Satellite SOS feature

It offers emergency communication without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, marking a first for Android devices outside China.

TechloyKelechi Edeh

This move doesn't just represent a significant expansion of satellite communication capabilities beyond emergencies; it's part of a broader trend in which major telecom companies invest in satellite technology to provide more reliable coverage in areas with poor cellular service.

Last year, T-Mobile partnered with Starlink, a satellite-based internet service provider, to offer direct-to-cell satellite services.

Smartphones can now connect directly to Starlink satellites in the U.S.

FCC’s approval marks the first time it has greenlit a satellite-terrestrial network partnership in the U.S.

TechloyEmmanuel Oyedeji