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Verizon is making significant strides in satellite-based connectivity, expanding beyond emergency SOS messaging to include full SMS and voice calling services. This next phase of development builds on its partnership with Skylo Technologies, signaling a major advancement in direct-to-device satellite communications.
Verizon’s Satellite Expansion
Verizon is making significant strides in expanding its network capabilities by integrating satellite technology into its infrastructure. This move aims to provide seamless connectivity in remote and underserved areas, ensuring users stay connected even in locations where traditional cellular networks struggle.
Verizon’s Partnership with Satellite Providers
To bring satellite-powered SMS and, potentially, other services to its customers, Verizon has partnered with satellite technology companies such as Amazon’s Project Kuiper and AST SpaceMobile (if applicable). These collaborations focus on leveraging low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which offer lower latency and better coverage compared to traditional geostationary satellites.
This partnership allows Verizon to:
- Expand its network footprint without the need for costly terrestrial infrastructure.
- Enhance emergency communication capabilities for users in disaster-prone areas.
- Compete with emerging satellite-based cellular services from Apple, T-Mobile, and SpaceX.
Expanding Coverage to Remote and Rural Areas
One of the primary goals of Verizon’s satellite expansion is to bridge the digital divide by extending mobile coverage to rural regions, remote worksites, national parks, and maritime areas where cellular signals are weak or nonexistent.
With SMS support on the way, this update could:
- Enable users in off-grid locations to send and receive texts without relying on Wi-Fi.
- Improve communication for first responders and emergency personnel in disaster-affected regions.
- Support industries such as agriculture, mining, and transportation, where workers operate in remote environments.
How This Update Fits into Verizon’s Broader Strategy
Verizon’s investment in satellite connectivity aligns with its long-term network expansion and 5G coverage goals. By integrating satellite technology, Verizon is:
- Strengthening its position as a leader in connectivity solutions.
- Enhancing its emergency and disaster recovery communications.
- Preparing for future advancements, including satellite-powered voice and data services.
With major players like Apple and SpaceX entering the satellite communication space, Verizon’s move ensures it remains competitive in an evolving market. The addition of SMS support via satellite is just the first step toward a broader satellite-powered mobile experience for customers.
TL;DR:
Verizon and Skylo Technologies are working to bring satellite-based SMS and voice calling to everyday users, extending beyond emergency services.
Currently, only Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 series support Verizon’s satellite SOS services, requiring specialized NTN-compatible modems.
Verizon and AST SpaceMobile are also testing full satellite-powered voice calls, internet access, and video applications without requiring hardware modifications.
Verizon Expands Satellite Connectivity Beyond SOS
Moreover, Verizon has already introduced satellite-based emergency SOS texting, enabling users to send critical messages and share locations when out of traditional cellular coverage. This service, powered by Skylo Technologies, is currently limited to select devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 series and Google Pixel 9, which include specialized modems capable of NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) communication.
Now, Verizon is preparing to go beyond emergency services, bringing everyday satellite texting and voice calling to more users. Pete Saladino, Global Head of Marketing at Skylo Technologies, confirmed to Mobile World Live that Skylo and Verizon are actively working on this new capability. He hinted that the satellite SMS service will launch soon, followed by voice calling support in the near future.
“We hope to bring [the service] to market soon,” Saladino stated, emphasizing that this expansion will allow users to stay connected even in remote areas without cellular coverage.
How Verizon’s Satellite Service Compares to T-Mobile and Starlink
Verizon isn’t the only carrier advancing satellite communications. T-Mobile, in collaboration with Starlink, is currently testing a direct-to-device satellite service promising cellular-like connectivity, including text messaging, voice calls, and internet access.
While Verizon’s current satellite SOS service requires specialized hardware, T-Mobile’s approach aims to deliver seamless connectivity to any smartphone without modifications. If successful, this would provide a broader reach without requiring consumers to upgrade to specific phone models.
However, Verizon is taking a dual approach to satellite expansion:
- Skylo Technologies Partnership:
- Focused on satellite-based SMS and voice calling.
- Requires devices with NTN-compatible hardware (e.g., Pixel 9, Galaxy S25).
- AST SpaceMobile Collaboration:
- Aiming for full satellite-powered voice calls, data access, and video applications.
- Testing a solution that would work on existing smartphones without hardware modifications.
This two-pronged strategy suggests that Verizon is planning to offer multiple tiers of satellite connectivity, catering to both high-end flagship users and broader audiences with standard smartphones.
Potential Challenges and Limitations
While Verizon’s satellite SMS support marks a major step forward in connectivity, there are several challenges and limitations that could impact its effectiveness.
1. Network Reliability and Speed Concerns
Satellite networks, especially low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, are still evolving. While they offer broader coverage, they may face:
- Latency Issues – Even with LEO satellites reducing delay, sending and receiving messages might not be as instantaneous as traditional cellular networks.
- Signal Disruptions – Weather conditions, terrain (mountains, forests), and obstructions (buildings) could affect signal reliability.
- Capacity Constraints – If too many users attempt to send texts via satellite at once, network congestion could lead to delays or failed messages.
2. Cost Considerations (Will There Be Premium Charges?)
A key concern is whether Verizon will charge extra for satellite-based SMS services. Possible pricing models include:
- Pay-Per-Use Model – Users may need to pay per message or subscribe to a special plan for satellite texting.
- Bundled Plans – Verizon could integrate satellite SMS into premium plans at no additional cost for select users.
- Emergency-Only Access – Some carriers, like Apple with Emergency SOS, offer satellite messaging only for emergencies—Verizon might follow a similar approach.
Customers will need to wait for official pricing details to understand whether this service will be affordable for everyday use or limited to specific situations.
3. Limitations in Features (Will MMS Be Supported?)
At launch, Verizon’s satellite messaging may be limited to SMS only, meaning:
- No MMS support – Users likely won’t be able to send images, videos, or voice messages.
- No group texting – Many early satellite services only support one-on-one messages.
- Text-Only Emergency Support – In disaster scenarios, this could still be useful, but lack of multimedia support may hinder richer communication.
As technology improves, future updates could introduce MMS support, but for now, users may need to adjust expectations regarding functionality.
When Will Verizon Launch Satellite SMS and Voice Calling?
While Verizon has yet to provide a firm timeline for the rollout, industry experts suggest that satellite SMS will likely launch first, with additional mobile services—such as voice calling—following later.
With AST SpaceMobile recently receiving FCC approval for a “Special Temporary Authority” (STA) to begin beta testing in the U.S., Verizon’s expansion into direct-to-device satellite services seems imminent. However, it remains unclear whether Verizon will conduct a test program similar to T-Mobile or go straight to a full-scale launch once the technology is ready.
One thing is certain: satellite connectivity is becoming a major frontier in mobile networks, and Verizon is positioning itself as a leading player in the space. Stay tuned for more updates as these next-generation services roll out.