Google Pixel 10 To Support WhatsApp Calls Via Satellite Network

Google has announced a major new feature for its recently launched Pixel 10 series, making it the first smartphone lineup to support voice and video calls on WhatsApp via satellite. The update will roll out on August 28, the same day the devices become available for purchase.

The feature, unveiled in a post on X, allows users to make and receive WhatsApp calls in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. A satellite icon will appear in the status bar when connected, and users can answer calls as they normally do, through a satellite link. This capability is part of Google's broader push into satellite-based communication, first introduced during the Pixel 10 launch at the Made by Google event on August 20. Google has partnered with non-terrestrial network provider Skylo to power these features.

In addition to WhatsApp calling, Pixel 10 users can share their location via satellite using services like Find My Device and Google Maps. However, WhatsApp text messaging over satellite is not yet supported. Google has clarified that the feature will be limited to supported carriers, and users may incur additional charges when using WhatsApp voice and video calls over a satellite network. With this move, Google becomes the first to integrate satellite-based WhatsApp calling into a smartphone, positioning the Pixel 10 as a frontrunner in emergency and off-grid communication technology.