As Android 15 and carrier support for satellite messaging roll out, here’s a sneak peek at what messaging via satellite might bring to your smartphone experience.
The article makes it seem like any Android 15 device could satellite message. Isn’t it the case that the device has to support satellite messaging as well?
Juno said:
The article makes it seem like any Android 15 device could satellite message. Isn’t it the case that the device has to support satellite messaging as well?
No, existing devices can support it.
The services being rolled out use regular cellular spectrum, so no special hardware is needed.
For example, Rogers demoed it with an S22:
> Technology available on existing smartphones
> The phone call was made using Lynk’s low-earth orbit satellites and Rogers national wireless spectrum. Wireless spectrum ensures this technology works on existing smartphones, so customers don’t need customized apps or new hardware.
@Phoenix
Thank you for the info! I’m wondering what use this has for the average user? Direct satellite communication is obviously helpful when you’re out of cellular/WiFi coverage. But for example, with an S22, wouldn’t you still need a cellular network for traffic to pass through a satellite? Maybe it’s useful as a backup at the network level?
@Juno
Satellites create a mesh network to cover areas, so you can get service directly from the satellite even when no cell towers are around.
Phoenix said:
@Juno
Satellites create a mesh network to cover areas, so you can get service directly from the satellite even when no cell towers are around.
That’s not what mesh means or how this works.
@Poe
Yes, actually, that is how it works:
> SpaceX uses lasers to enable satellites to form a mesh network in space, sharing data across satellites when no ground station is near. This allows seamless global coverage.
@Juno
“With an S22, you’d still have to have cellular network…” That’s not how it works.
Keegan said:
@Juno
“With an S22, you’d still have to have cellular network…” That’s not how it works.
Yeah, my bad. I didn’t realize satellites could transmit a cellular signal regular phones can pick up. It’s surprising they can manage this over such distances.
So… it looks like normal messaging?
Why is ‘Satellite Messaging’ so hyped lately? It’s an extra service you may never use unless you’re outside coverage. What happens if you’re in a dangerous situation and you don’t have satellite messaging but need to reach 911?
@Palmer
This tech can literally be a lifesaver. On the West Coast, there are hundreds of miles with no network coverage. This is one of the best developments in years.
@Palmer
In North America, 911 access is mandatory, even without a SIM or plan. Satellite messaging will probably work the same way for emergencies but require a plan for personal use.
Phoenix said:
@Palmer
In North America, 911 access is mandatory, even without a SIM or plan. Satellite messaging will probably work the same way for emergencies but require a plan for personal use.
Isn’t emergency number access without a SIM card mandatory everywhere?
Phoenix said:
@Palmer
In North America, 911 access is mandatory, even without a SIM or plan. Satellite messaging will probably work the same way for emergencies but require a plan for personal use.
What if you’re in the middle of nowhere with only satellite coverage?
@Palmer
Same as now—no 911. Folks in those areas already use devices like Garmin InReach.
@Palmer
If it’s decent, it could save me ~$175/year and some weight while hiking since I currently pay for and carry a SPOT device.