What’s New
Google announced the Pixel 10 series will allow you to place WhatsApp voice and video calls even where there is no mobile signal, using a satellite connection. The feature begins on August 28 when the phones become available. Google and WhatsApp broke the news together on social media, and tech websites confirmed the news.
This is a significant leap beyond current phones that only have emergency satellite texting. Up to now, Apple iPhones and Samsung’s latest models were based on SOS or plain texts. Pixel 10 pushes satellite use into everyday messaging via WhatsApp.
Where Will It Work And Who Can Use It
Google indicates that the feature will roll out across the entire Pixel 10 family: Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL (and it’s rumored for other Pixel 10 models as they’re released). The release came with a demo of a WhatsApp call and a small satellite icon in the status bar when offline.
Pixel 10 also connects to a broader satellite plan with T-Mobile’s T-Satellite network and partners such as Skylo, providing off-grid coverage of Google apps like Maps, Messages, and Find features at launch.
Restrictions You Need To Be Aware Of
There are qualifiers. Satellite calling is subject to carrier involvement, can cost additional money, and requires you to be outside with an unobstructed view of the sky. You can also anticipate hold times longer than conventional mobile calls, since satellites take longer round-trip times than cellular towers. These are mentioned in initial reporting of Google’s announcement.
Also, satellite calling within WhatsApp is independent of Google’s proprietary satellite SOS and messaging solutions. Pixel 10 maintains those safety features, while WhatsApp manages the data call when you are out of range.
Why It Matters
For rural residents, travelers, and hikers, it can be a convenience and a lifeline. Rather than holding out for reception, you can make a speedy WhatsApp call to loved ones or share a live video from an outlying location. It also advances the smartphone industry: rivals to date provide emergency satellite capabilities, but Pixel 10 is the first to enable full WhatsApp calling over satellite.
Comparision
Apple iPhone (14 and later): iPhones now have Emergency SOS over satellite and short texts, not regular app calls such as WhatsApp.
Samsung Galaxy S25 line: Samsung introduced satellite messaging earlier in the year through some carriers, but it’s still text-only, not voice/video app calls.
Pixel 10
The first to offer WhatsApp voice and video calls over satellite, along with Google’s own SOS/messaging features and projected access to Maps/Messages/Find over satellite.
Release Timing And Phones
- Feature begin: August 28, 2025 (Pixel 10 release date).
- Models: Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL (others in the series anticipated as available).
FAQs
- Will I be able to use WhatsApp satellite calls from inside my home?
No. You’ll need to be outside with an unobstructed view of the sky for a reliable satellite connection.
- Will there be additional fees?
Possibly. Availability depends on participating carriers, and extra fees may apply. Check your carrier’s terms once the feature goes live.
- Does this replace emergency SOS?
No. It’s in addition to emergency features. Pixel 10 keeps satellite SOS and other safety tools. WhatsApp calling is a separate, everyday feature when you’re off-grid.
- Which countries will get it first?
Google has not released a full country list yet. Coverage will vary depending on carrier and partner networks. Look for regional announcements at launch.
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