Samsung Galaxy S26 could gain this important safety feature

Galaxy S26 Plus render
(Image credit: OnLeaks / Android Headlines)

Samsung has completed the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification process for a new selection of devices, which are likely to be the Galaxy S26 series.

As spotted by SamMobile, the FCC has released the certifications for three distinct device IDs: A3LSMS942U, A3LSMS947U and A3LSMS948U. These IDs are believed to refer to the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus and the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

According to the certifications, all the phones are stated to support both Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) and Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN). These same technologies were present in the Galaxy S25 series, and allow the devices to make use of satellite messaging. It’s also stated that, like the current generation, the phones will continue to use Skylo, one of the leading NTN service providers. However, it is worth noting that this feature may again be limited to certain markets, such as within the U.S.

On top of that, the certificates also state that all three phones will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy. However, other markets may see some of the phones launch with the new Exynos 2600 chips instead.

Smartphone satellite support is growing

iOS 26 Satellite SOS mode running on iPhone.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

Utilizing satellites for basic communications on smartphones is a relatively new technology. We first saw the feature appear on the iPhone 14, which utilized the tech for its Emergency SOS feature. Since then, we have slowly seen the technology being adopted by more devices and networks, such as T-Mobile working with Starlink, and both the Google Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 offering Satellite messaging.

In concept, it’s a great idea for a feature, as it allows for at least some level of communication wherever you are, assuming you're out in the open. Most phones have the means to tell you when there’s a satellite in range, but it’s nowhere near as consistent as network communications. You’re also unable to send larger files or multimedia, and there are caps on the length of the messages you can send.

But despite those limits, it’s a feature that can be a literal lifesaver in the right conditions. As such, we’re happy to see that the Galaxy S26 series will feature the ability. With the Samsung Galaxy S26 release event expected for February 25, let us know what you’re excited to see for the next generation of Galaxy phones.


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Josh Render
Staff Writer

Josh is a staff writer for Tom's Guide and is based in the UK. He has worked for several publications but now works primarily on mobile phones. Outside of phones, he has a passion for video games, novels, and Warhammer. 

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