Satellite-to-cell graphic. Photo illustration: Via Satellite

Verizon is expanding texting capabilities for Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 9 smartphones that allow customers with these phones to send text messages to any other customer device via satellite. 

Verizon announced March 19 that upgrades enabling this service will take place over the next two weeks. Satellite text messaging works when phones are not in range for cellular networks.

Verizon noted that satellite technology is now “woven into the everyday,” and “used to help connect and power customers’ lives.”  

The telco works with Skylo to enable satellite texting. While Skylo does not operate satellites, it works as an intermediary between the satellite operator and mobile network operators (MNOs), facilitating the service via mobile satellite service (MSS) satellites through its tech stack. Verizon also has a commercial agreement with AST SpaceMobile and recently conducted live video calls via an AST SpaceMobile satellite. 

Both Verizon and T-Mobile have been pushing their collaborations with satellite technology to customers. Verizon aired an ad during the Grammy Awards with astronaut Buzz Aldrin, and T-Mobile aired a Super Bowl commercial showcasing this technology.