Unlike Apple or Google, which proudly touts its satellite services, Samsung has been surprisingly quiet on the subject. However, the Galaxy S25, S25+ and Galaxy S25 Ultra are the first Android smartphones to integrate Snapdragon Satellite technology from Qualcomm. This system makes it possible to communicate in these areas in an emergency situation with virtually no network coverage.
But here’s the thing: If the goods are ready, the service isn’t. Samsung has chosen to leave the responsibility of enabling the functionality to mobile operators. Consequently, without a partnership between the operator and a satellite connectivity supplier such as Skylo, the technology remains unusable.
A very limited deployment
To date, only Verizon in the United States has signed an agreement with Skylo to enable this functionality. So buyers of this operator can avail free satellite messaging on Galaxy S25. But for US customers of other operators, such as AT&T or T-Mobile, it will be necessary to wait for a similar partnership to be established.
Outside the United States, the situation is even more ambiguous. No major operator has yet announced plans to enable the technology, leaving international users in a state of uncertainty. In France, for example, the situation around satellite communications on the Samsung Galaxy S25 is uncertain. Unlike Apple, which offers it thanks to a partnership with GlobalStar, Samsung hasn’t made a similar deal to guarantee universal coverage.
As it stands, Samsung is based on a strategy that leaves enabling satellite connectivity to telecom operators. In France, none of the main players – Orange, SFR, Bouges Telecom or Free – has yet announced a collaboration with a satellite service provider (such as Skylo, or Iridium, etc.).
This means that, despite the presence of 5GTN compatible devices in the Galaxy S25, French users still have access to satellite data. Will not be able to send messages, whether for emergencies or other uses. In a country where white areas – those places without mobile coverage – still exist, satellite connectivity fills a real need. can do But for the moment, no signs suggest a short-term deployment.