The Future of Mobile: Satellite-to-Phone Explained

PHOTO BY COTTONBRO STUDIO ON PEXELS

Satellite-to-phone technology connects mobile devices directly to satellites, bypassing traditional cell towers. This means people can make calls or send messages from virtually anywhere on Earth, even in remote areas without coverage.

It’s changing how mobile communication works by expanding reach far beyond typical networks. This could be a game-changer for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency situations where normal signal is weak or missing.

Satellite Features Hit Phones

Modern smartphones now include satellite-based emergency texting, allowing users to send basic messages without a cellular signal. This is especially useful in remote areas or during disasters.

The following video on the Galaxy S24 series shows how Samsung has implemented two-way satellite messaging using 5GN10 technology. It supports emergency text communication and location sharing, aligning with 3GPP Release 17 standards:

Models with both Exynos and Snapdragon chips support this feature, bringing lifesaving tools directly to users’ pockets.

Race to Space Heats Up

Multiple companies are launching satellites to support direct mobile connections in areas without coverage. Their goal is to close the global connectivity gap through space-based infrastructure.

The tweet below highlighted AST SpaceMobile’s progress, noting that 85% of Earth lacks cell coverage. The company has already completed real satellite phone calls using its “cell towers in space” approach:

These efforts show the race isn’t just theory—it’s delivering results. As competition grows, users benefit from broader access and faster innovation.

What Users Can Expect

Users can now send basic texts in remote or disconnected areas, even when local networks are down. Satellite-to-phone tech enables emergency messaging and limited calling without needing Wi-Fi or towers.

The following recent tweet shows Starlink now supports SMS in Iran using only a modern LTE smartphone and a SIM—no dish required. It’s a lifeline in places facing blackouts or shutdowns:

Delays are possible and mobile data isn’t available yet, but reliable basic communication is already becoming a reality.