Verizon customers are getting satellite messaging, the carrier has announced. The company has partnered with Skylo to offer its customers direct-to-device messaging and location-sharing services that use Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for communication.
When will Verizon customers get satellite messaging?
According to Verizon’s announcement, its subscribers will be able to rely on LEO satellites to convey their messages and share their location. Verizon assures subscribers with compatible handsets that they will soon be able to reach emergency services even in areas with no cellular service.
Verizon claims it will start offering satellite messaging this fall. The company indicated the service is designed to complement Apple’s Emergency SOS feature. However, Verizon’s satellite messaging will reportedly work on Android phones.
In the initial stages of deployment, Verizon customers will only be able to message emergency services. In other words, Verizon is limiting communication to select services. However, the carrier hasn’t confirmed which Android smartphones will support this feature.
Exciting news! Verizon and @skylo have teamed up to launch a commercial direct-to-device messaging service for Verizon customers so they can stay connected wherever they are. Learn about this first-of-its-kind satellite IoT trial here:#vteam https://t.co/IhIGxMJoCh
— Greta Knappenberger (@_GretaK) August 28, 2024
To reliably support satellite communication Android smartphones need native support for the technology. Google has been adding code to Android 15, which strongly suggests the mobile operating system could support the feature soon.
Similarly, several Samsung apps for the Android OS ecosystem reportedly have text strings related to supporting satellite communication. However, smartphones would need the latest chipsets that support this technology.
Will customers be able to make calls and send lengthy texts via satellites?
Satellite communication isn’t a new technology. However, its implementation in smartphones is still in its early stages, and only a select few brands have managed to embed the same into a few of their flagship devices. Some Apple iPhones have satellite communication.
Apple’s implementation of satellite communication restricts the feature to sending emergency messages only. In other words, no iPhone can send lengthy text messages, and emojis, or make calls using LEO satellites.
We are excited to partner with @Verizon, the carrier known globally for its powerful performance and reliable service, as we bring a new level of connectivity from space. Satellite access isn’t just about reaching out when you’re in trouble; it’s connectivity for staying in… pic.twitter.com/6cS4qoWwi3
— Skylo (@SkyloTech) August 28, 2024
Verizon too has confirmed these restrictions. Skylo, Verizon’s service partner, is a California-based satellite network service provider. It claims to rely on a dedicated, licensed mobile satellite spectrum to ensure reliable connectivity in areas where building a cellular network isn’t feasible.
Satellite communication is a lot more strenuous on a smartphone’s battery than cellular connectivity. However, Verizon has indicated that starting next year, users will be able to text anywhere via satellite.
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