The Mobile Space Race continues as two more major wireless carriers take part in satellite texting.
Also: Want a free Starlink satellite texting? T-Mobile has a deal, but a catch
in Today’s announcementCharter Communications and Comcast said Spectrum Mobile and Xfinity Mobile customers will get satellite text messages. The deployment begins today and must be completed “in the coming weeks.” Like other carriers, Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 9 series phones are starting, so you’ll need a new device to take advantage of the service.
No pricing announced
The move became the first career to serve just one day after Verizon made a similar announcement.
Neither company mentions the potential prices for satellite texting. Verizon offers it for free, but other carriers charge $20 a month. Given that no costs were mentioned in the press release, it appears to be free for now.
Also: This small satellite messenger can send texts even when camping from the grid
It’s not a huge loss considering Verizon does not introduce services for iOS devices, but Apple offers it on its own, including the iPhone 14, 15, and 16.
Equipped with Skylo
Skylo powers services, the same company that handles satellite text messages on Verizon and Pixel phones. Unlike Starlink, Skylo does not own its own satellite, but instead leasing bandwidth from other owners.
Also: On the Storm: How satellite technology will be a lifesaver during a natural disaster
If you are not familiar with it, satellite text messages allow you to send text messages outside the scope of a traditional cell tower. Not only is it convenient, but it can save lives in good scenarios, such as natural disasters when communication lines are lowered. Features like Google’s “Satellite SOS” feature can only send messages to emergency services, but satellite text allows almost anyone to send messages.
Also: Best Satellite Phone
Satellite texting is not quick, and is limited to texting for now (AT&T makes video calls via satellite), but there is security to know that it’s there if necessary.
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