Google has announced that Android 15 will introduce the capability to send and receive text messages via satellite connections. Pre-installed SMS and RCS apps on Android 15 will be able to utilize this satellite connection for messaging, as reported by Google. Additionally, other apps will be able to detect when the connection is established via satellite, although they will not be able to utilize it at present. When connected via satellite, a satellite icon will appear at the top of the screen, and the phone will notify the user about the satellite connection.
This feature is designed to enable users to send messages even when not connected to a mobile network or WiFi, particularly useful in remote areas. However, this functionality requires the phone to support it, and there are currently only a few models that do so. Apple has supported similar functionality since the release of the iPhone 14, and some Huawei phones have had this capability for several years.
Another update in Android 15 is that apps will now be able to indicate compatibility with the cover screen of flip phones. Previously, manufacturers of folding phones had to coordinate with app developers for this compatibility, but now Android will support it natively. These options are available in the second preview version of Android 15. The first beta is expected to be released next month, with the final release anticipated in August or September.
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