Imagine still being able to make a WhatsApp call even when your phone shows no signal. That is what Google is bringing with the new Pixel 10 series. The company has confirmed that the phones will support WhatsApp voice and video calls through satellites, so you can stay connected even without mobile data or Wi-Fi. For people who travel, hike, or live in places with weak coverage, this could be one of the most useful features ever added to a Pixel phone. The launch is set for August 28.
What Google confirmed
Google made the announcement through its official X (Twitter) account. A short teaser video showed a Pixel receiving a WhatsApp call while the status bar displayed a small satellite icon. That icon is the visual sign that the phone has switched from regular cellular or Wi-Fi to a satellite link. The feature will go live the same day the Pixel 10 lineup officially launches, on August 28.
How WhatsApp satellite calls work
The process is simple for the user. When the Pixel 10 cannot find a normal mobile network, it will try to connect to a satellite. Once connected, users can place or receive WhatsApp calls as usual. Behind the scenes, the data is transmitted through a satellite link instead of a cell tower.
As with all satellite connections, there are trade offs. You need to be outdoors with a clear view of the sky. Call setup times may be slower, and quality may not match what you get over 5G or Wi-Fi. Google has also said the service depends on carrier participation, and extra charges may apply.
Why this is a first for smartphones
What makes this important is that it moves satellite use from emergency only features to everyday communication. Letting people call friends and family over WhatsApp when they are off-grid is a big upgrade compared to SOS alerts or basic texts. Multiple reports highlight that Google is the first to actually ship this on a consumer smartphone.
This change could be especially useful for people in rural areas, those who travel through remote regions, or outdoor enthusiasts. Instead of being cut off, they can continue making regular WhatsApp calls, something no other phone currently offers.
More satellite features on Pixel 10
The WhatsApp calls are not the only satellite feature coming to the Pixel 10. Google also confirmed satellite location sharing through Google Maps and Find Hub, built with support from Skylo. That background explains why Google is confident expanding from emergency tools into full communication features.
What we still do not know
Important details are still missing. Google and WhatsApp have not confirmed the list of carrier partners, regions where the service will be available, or possible pricing. It is also unclear if WhatsApp text messaging will work over satellite, as the focus so far is only on voice and video calls.
Launch date and availability
The Pixel 10 series will officially launch on August 28, with pre-orders expected to open the same week. From day one, the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL will support WhatsApp satellite calls giving Google a clear lead in the race for satellite-powered smartphones.
If the rollout is smooth and widely supported, this feature could set a new standard for what users expect from premium phones. For now, it is a Pixel 10 exclusive, and it may be the most practical upgrade the lineup has ever seen.
