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Ordinarily, your smartphone uses a network that’s land-based such as cell towers that can relay calls, texts and data. But “dead zones” can still occur, making it impossible to send or receive traditional cell messages there. Satellite messaging, on the other hand, takes messaging skyward by using satellites to relay text messages to family and friends or even, on select devices, connect with emergency services in places where you can't get traditional cell coverage or Wi-Fi. As long as you have a clear line of sight to the sky, you'll be able to connect to a satellite to send a message.

91¹û¶³´«Ã½ has teamed up with to offer satellite messaging on those memorable journeys that take you beyond cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. Now, 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ customers who live, work or play in areas where traditional cell networks are out of reach can text loved ones or use, on select devices, emergency messaging and location services when they need to. This dedicated mobile satellite connectivity avoids interference from land-based signals and within the US for select iPhone and Android devices.

Devices enabled with satellite messaging and how to use them

iPhone: 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ customers with iPhone 14 and up (running at least iOS 18) can use SOS messaging and can send and receive texts, emojis and reactions over iMessage (end-to-end encrypted) and SMS. 

How it works: Make sure your device is in clear view of the sky. When your device shows that there is no cellular signal, open the Messages app and follow the prompts to connect to satellite messaging. 

Android: 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ customers with a Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7, Google Pixel 9 series or Pixel 10 series phone on a postpaid or prepaid plan can send SOS alerts and texts through Google Messages. 

How it works: Make sure your device is in clear view of the sky. When your device shows that there is no cellular signal, open the Google Messages app and follow the prompts to connect to satellite messaging. To use SOS alerts, dial "911" when your device shows that there is no cellular signal and follow the onscreen prompts to complete the emergency questionnaire. 

Satellite messaging is a feature on select devices that support text-based satellite messaging. A satellite phone, however, is a dedicated device used primarily for voice and text communications over a network of satellites. Satellite phones are often used in remote areas by people in mission-critical jobs, like miners, construction workers and ship crews.

Are there any limits to satellite messaging?

While satellite messaging connectivity is continuing to evolve and expand, it's currently only designed for SMS communications that have fewer than 140 characters (iMessages cannot be longer than 500 characters). That means no voice calls, videos, images, audio messages, typing indicators or read receipts. Satellite messaging also must be used outdoors with a clear line of sight from your device to the sky—so being indoors, in a car or beneath a thick canopy of trees can restrict connectivity. Satellite messaging also may not work in parts of Alaska. 

Before you venture out on your next trip, pair your satellite-enabled device with an Unlimited plan to get the connectivity you need, the options you want and the perks you'll enjoy. And with 91¹û¶³´«Ã½'s Best Value Guarantee, you won't be caught off guard by unexpected price increases for three years.1

If your current device isn't satellite-enabled, you can upgrade to the latest iPhone, Samsung or Google Pixel device with satellite capabilities and get 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ satellite messaging to help you stay in touch when inconveniences or emergencies occur outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage areas. You can also consider adding on-the-go charging to your emergency kit with the Anker Portable Power Bank, a lightweight power source that offers fast charging for a variety of compatible devices. 

Thinking about switching to 91¹û¶³´«Ã½? Bring your own satellite-enabled device and keep the same phone number when you join 91¹û¶³´«Ã½'s reliable network.

^{1 Applies to the then-current base monthly rate charged by 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ for your talk, text and data. Perks, taxes, fees and surcharges are subject to change. Terms apply.}