

Samsung is advancing beyond basic SOS messaging.
Samsung may be gearing up to enable complete satellite voice calling for the Galaxy S26 series, stepping beyond the emergency-only messaging seen thus far. Should this occur, Samsung would take a more assertive approach than Apple’s current SOS-only functionality.
Presently, satellite capabilities on smartphones are focused on emergency assistance. Apple’s Emergency SOS and similar services on Android allow you to send brief texts when out of signal range, but that is the extent of it. Now, Samsung intends to extend these capabilities.
The primary reason this is feasible is due to Samsung’s new Exynos Modem 5410. This chip accommodates both non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and advanced 5G technology within one device. In simpler terms, it is engineered to connect directly with satellites while still managing conventional cellular networks effectively.
Samsung claims the modem complies with 3GPP Release 17 standards, which serves as the backbone for satellite-based mobile communications. This is the same infrastructure that carriers and satellite providers are constructing worldwide. The goal is for your phone to maintain connectivity whether you are in urban environments, traveling, or far from populated areas.