The Future of Satellite Phones
Texting was just the beginning. Video calls, web browsing, and navigation via satellite are on the horizon. Here's what's coming.
The Satellite Timeline
From basic texting to full connectivity—here's how satellite phone features are evolving.
Emergency SOS Launches
Apple introduces Emergency SOS via satellite on iPhone 14. The first mainstream satellite phone feature reaches consumers.
Regular Messaging Arrives
iOS 18 enables Messages via satellite. T-Mobile launches with Starlink. Verizon joins the race with free satellite messaging.
Media Messaging
Verizon announces photo and video messaging via satellite. Group texts become possible. The gap between satellite and cellular narrows.
Video Calls via Satellite
Verizon's roadmap includes video calling. Real-time face-to-face communication from anywhere on Earth becomes possible.
Full Internet Access
The ultimate goal: web browsing, email, and full app connectivity via satellite. Your phone works everywhere, always.
What's on the Roadmap
Verizon is the only carrier with a publicly announced feature roadmap. Here's what they've committed to:
Photo Messaging
Send and receive photos via satellite. Share moments from the most remote locations on Earth.
Group Texting
Stay connected with multiple people at once. Coordinate with teams or keep family updated.
Video Calls
Face-to-face calls via satellite. The most ambitious feature on any carrier's roadmap.
Send and receive emails from anywhere. Stay productive even off the grid.
Navigation
Real-time navigation updates via satellite. Never lose your way in remote areas.
Web Browsing
Access the internet from anywhere on Earth. The final frontier of satellite connectivity.
Today vs. Tomorrow
How satellite phone features are evolving
What's Available Now
- ✓Text messaging (SMS/iMessage)
- ✓Emergency SOS
- ✓Location sharing
- ✓Select apps (T-Mobile only)
- ✗Photos & videos
- ✗Voice/video calls
- ✗Web browsing
What's Coming
- ✓Text messaging (enhanced)
- ✓Emergency SOS
- ✓Location sharing
- ✓Full app ecosystem
- ◐Photos & videos (announced)
- ◐Video calls (roadmap)
- ◐Web browsing (roadmap)
- ◐Email (roadmap)
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Get updates on satellite phone features as they launch.