The Galaxy S25 series, announced at Samsung‘s latest Unpacked event, is bringing a feature that flew somewhat under the radar: satellite connectivity. These are the first smartphones to support Snapdragon Satellite, Qualcomm’s new communication technology that enables users to send and receive messages via satellite in remote areas with no cellular coverage.
This feature is part of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, specifically utilizing the Snapdragon X80 5G modem. While this is groundbreaking for users who find themselves in places with limited or no network access—like rural areas, mountainous regions, or on the high seas—Samsung has not yet activated the satellite functionality. The feature will be rolled out through a software update, so Galaxy S25 users will need to wait until it’s ready to use.
However, the satellite connectivity will be region-dependent, and it’s unclear how Samsung plans to price it once it’s live. Given the reliance on satellite networks, it could be offered as part of a premium plan, or potentially at a cost for each use. The introduction of satellite communication on the S25 is poised to change how users stay connected, especially in places where traditional cell towers can’t reach.
Another point of interest is whether other devices with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset—from other manufacturers—will also gain access to Snapdragon Satellite. While the hardware is already integrated, Qualcomm has yet to announce if it will expand this feature to other phones or remain exclusive to the Galaxy S25 series. If the feature is made available to more devices, it could revolutionize communication for a broader range of smartphones, opening up entirely new possibilities for satellite-based messaging and communication on a global scale.
In conclusion, Snapdragon Satellite promises to provide a lifeline for users in remote locations, allowing them to stay connected even without traditional cellular networks. As Samsung prepares to roll it out via software updates, it will be interesting to see how this feature evolves, how Samsung structures its pricing model, and whether other Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered phones will follow suit. For now, Galaxy S25 owners can look forward to a major leap in connectivity—one that could potentially change how we communicate when far from the nearest cell tower.