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Samsung Modem Enables Satellite Voice Potential for Galaxy S26, Ultra Support in Doubt

Carrier agreements will decide if native satellite calling reaches any Galaxy S26 at launch.

Overview

  • Samsung’s Exynos Modem 5410 is confirmed to support 3GPP Release 17 with 5G NR dual connectivity across FR1 and FR2 and peak downloads up to 14.79Gbps.
  • The chip integrates LTE Direct-to-Cell for voice, NB‑IoT NTN for texts and location, and NR NTN for higher‑throughput use cases such as potential future video calling.
  • Reports link the modem to select Exynos 2600 variants of the Galaxy S26 lineup, which is widely expected to debut in February 2026.
  • A new report indicates Galaxy S26 Ultra models using Snapdragon silicon are unlikely to offer native satellite voice, suggesting a limited feature rollout that may favor Exynos regions such as South Korea.
  • Real‑world availability depends on carrier and satellite‑operator partnerships, regulatory approvals, pricing decisions, and independent testing of power and thermal performance.