Satellite connectivity on the Galaxy S26 phones is rolling out in certain markets, and as long as you’re on the right carriers, you can expect your new Galaxy phone to allow for emergency communication, even when you lack a direct cell signal.
But that’s not all. Samsung has quietly slipped out a list of apps that are compatible with satellite communications, and you can check it out for yourself if you have a compatible Samsung phone (via SamMobile).
A surprising number of apps are listed
This reveal didn’t come through a press release or an announcement — instead, it was discovered in a settings menu, of all places. As spotted by @theonecid on X (formerly Twitter), there’s a new section in the Connections menu that includes “Satellite-ready apps on your phone”.
There are a surprising number of apps included on this list, though it’s important to note that we aren’t exactly sure what “satellite-ready” means at this stage. It’s possible this is support that will be rolled out at a later date.
The apps listed include:
- Find My Mobile
- Google Maps
- Google Play Services
- Grok
- X
- Maps
- Messenger (Facebook)
- Messages
- Samsung Account
- Samsung Find
- Samsung Health
- Weather
- X-lite
The inclusion of Maps and Weather makes sense. After all, you’re going to want to know exactly where you are and whether there’s inclement weather on the way if you’re lost in the wilderness. However, X is an odd inclusion, and while an “I’m lost and I’m going to die” tweet would likely do numbers, it seems a little pointless when Messages and other communication services already let you call for help.
It’s more likely that this isn’t being viewed as a lifeline in emergency situations, and could instead become an extension of the existing cell networks, filling in when 5G or 4G isn’t available.
It’s also important to note that this list is not going to be exhaustive, as it will depend on the specific apps available on the phone of whoever checks.
You can check for yourself if you’re using a Galaxy S26 phone. Unfortunately, if you don’t have a compatible phone, you simply won’t have the menu.
If you want satellite communication in the US, then you’ll need to make sure you’re with T-Mobile or Verizon. Samsung is working with AT&T to get satellite communication set up, but there’s been no confirmation on when that will arrive yet.
