Google Pixel 10 becomes first phone to make WhatsApp calls via satellite

In a significant move to integrate emergency satellite capabilities into regular communication, Google said Thursday that its new Pixel 10 series smartphones will be the first to make WhatsApp voice and video calls using satellite connectivity. On August 28, which also happens to be the phones’ release date, the function goes live.

The internet giant and Meta’s WhatsApp messaging platform have partnered to deliver satellite calling to places without cellular coverage, according to the statement made via Google’s official Twitter account. This feature turns satellite connectivity from a safety net into a useful communication tool, going well beyond the emergency-only satellite messaging that cellphones already offer.

picture alliance – gettyimages.com

Breaking New Ground in Satellite Communication

Google posted a demonstration video of a Pixel 10 smartphone taking an incoming WhatsApp call while the satellite icon was displayed in the status bar, according to Android Authority. All Pixel 10 models, including the base model, Pro, Pro XL, and Pro Fold models, will have the feature.

According to Android Police’s article, “Even T-Mobile, which has received praise for its T-Satellite service, only offers SMS and MMS functionality.” Satellite connectivity is supported by Apple’s iPhone 14 and later generations, but solely for basic texting via iMessage and emergency SOS messages.

Google now has an advantage over Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series, which debuted satellite messaging earlier this year but is still only able to send text messages via a few carriers.

Technical Implementation and Limitations

Important disclaimers are included with the service. “Limited to participating carriers and additional charges may apply” is how the announcement’s fine print describes satellite WhatsApp calling. In contrast to conventional cellular networks, users will need to be outside with a clear view of the sky, and there may be delays in the service.

With WhatsApp calls serving as a distinct data-enabled satellite capability, Google Messages is probably going to continue to have the only access to satellite messaging features.

Broader Satellite Strategy

The WhatsApp calling announcement follows Google’s previous statement that Pixel 10 smartphones will get early access to T-Mobile satellite broadband services. T-Mobile revealed that Pixel 10 users can begin using Google Maps, Google Messages, and Find Hub via satellite connection on August 28, ahead of the October 1 launch for other devices.

This enhanced satellite functionality could help WhatsApp gain market share in the United States, where the messaging software competes with iMessage and other platforms. The alliance underscores both firms’ efforts to make satellite connectivity a standard feature rather than an emergency service.