- Google has enabled WhatsApp satellite calls on the Pixel 10 since August 28.
- Voice and video on WhatsApp when there's no mobile coverage, with requirements and restrictions.
- Operators and costs yet to be determined; additional charges may apply.
- Limitations: outdoors with visible sky, no initial WhatsApp satellite messages.
The new ones Pixel 10 They come with a feature that aims to change how we communicate when there is no coverage: the satellite calls on WhatsApp. Google has confirmed that this option will be activated starting from August 28, coinciding with the official arrival of the terminals to the market, even in zonas remotas.
The proposal allows to carry out llamadas de voz y vídeo on WhatsApp even in remote areas, as long as the user is outdoors and with direct visibility of the sky.
What exactly has Google announced?
In a message posted on X, Google summarized the news: WhatsApp calls will be the first to offer via a satellite network starting 28/8. The demonstration video shows the satellite icon in the bar from the device while making a call from the app.
The company stresses that the service depends on participating operators, which may not be available in all countries from the start and which conditions will apply specific. It also indicates that certain critical messages to emergency services such as «911» may experience delays or be unavailable.
Another relevant point is that, for now, the function focuses on llamadas de voz y vídeo. There is no confirmation that the messages WhatsApp will operate via satellite in this first phase.
According to the information shared in the presentation, WhatsApp calls maintain the end-to-end encryption, and at launch may initially be limited to contactos guardados en el propio teléfono.
How satellite calls work on WhatsApp on the Pixel 10
The satellite connection comes into play when the mobile cannot use mobile networks conventional. In environments such as mountains or rural areas, the Pixel 10 guides the user to align the device with the satellite and thus complete the call via WhatsApp.
This capability represents a change from emergency-focused services, as WhatsApp communication is designed for, not limited to, SOS. However, it does require being in espacios abiertos and there may be interruptions due to weather or visibility conditions.
- Initial compatibility: Voice and video calls on WhatsApp; does not include WhatsApp satellite messaging at this stage.
- Requirements: outdoors, sky visibility, and a compatible Pixel 10.
- Privacy: End-to-end encrypted calls, just like the regular app.
- Limitations: Availability by operator/area; additional charges may apply.
For those who only need to send text in the absence of coverage, Google maintains the path of its Messages app for essential communications, while shaping the reach of WhatsApp in fases posteriores.
Meanwhile, the Pixel Watch 4 LTE integrates satellite connection with a different approach: its use is limited to emergencias, marking the first step of a wearable with access to this type of network but without the general layer of WhatsApp.
Availability, operators and possible costs
Google aims for a deployment by phases and countries, subject to agreements with operators. There is currently no finalized list of supported operators nor confirmation of all the markets in which it will be active from day one.
The fine print mentions that they can additional charges may apply and that the service will be subject to terms and conditionsIt is recommended Consult with the operator before using satellite calls frequently, especially when traveling.
Regarding compatibility with other models, Google has introduced the feature as a first for the Pixel 10.There's no confirmation yet that older models will receive this WhatsApp capability via satellite via an update.
For reference, the previous generation already incorporated hardware for satellite communication with limitations focused on SOS, and now the Pixel 10 makes the jump to WhatsApp calls beyond emergencies, with activation scheduled for August 28.
The announcement places the Pixel 10 at a unique point in the market: they add the layer of WhatsApp by satellite to a field where until now the function stood out Emergencia SOS from Apple and where other Android initiatives, such as Snapdragon Satellite Qualcomm's, failed to consolidate. The operator map, pricing, and geographic reach remain to be determined, but the direction is clear: more connection options in places where it was previously impossible to make calls.
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