Google has announced that its new Pixel 10 phone series will, for the first time, support WhatsApp voice and video calls via satellite, making it the first brand to offer this feature on the popular messaging app. The company revealed this new feature in an official post on X, including a clip showing a WhatsApp call from a Pixel 10 phone without any terrestrial network connection, where the satellite icon appears instead of network or Wi-Fi indicators. According to Google, the service will be available on Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and two other models starting August 28, 2025, initially limited to carriers supporting satellite networks, likely launching first in the United States. The service will be restricted to compatible devices and mostly open areas where the satellite is visible, with possible additional fees from carriers. So far, Google has not mentioned satellite messaging capabilities, confirming the feature is limited to calls only.

As with all WhatsApp calls, satellite calls will have end-to-end encryption ensuring full privacy. This move is expected to spark direct competition with Apple, as rumors suggest the upcoming iPhone 17 may include a similar update to leverage satellite services.