The mobile space race continues as two more major wireless carriers get in on satellite texting.

Also: Want free Starlink satellite texting? T-Mobile's got a deal, but there's a catch

In an announcement today, Charter Communications and Comcast said that Spectrum Mobile and Xfinity Mobile customers will get satellite texting. The rollout starts today and should be completed "in the coming weeks." Like other carriers, you'll need a newer device to take advantage of the service, as it is exclusive to the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 9 series phones to start.

Pricing hasn't been announced

The move comes just a day after Verizon made a similar announcement, becoming the first carrier to offer the service.

Neither company mentioned a potential price for satellite texting. Verizon is offering it at no charge, but other carriers charge as much as$20 a month. Given that the press release didn't mention cost, it seems likely that it's free for now.

Also: This tiny satellite messenger lets me send texts even when I'm camping off the grid

Verizon isn't introducing the service for iOS devices, but considering Apple offers that on its own, including the iPhone 14, 15, and 16, that's not a big loss.

Powered by Skylo

Skylo will power the service, the same company that handles satellite texting for Verizon and Pixel phones. Unlike Starlink, Skylo doesn't own any satellites of its own but instead leases bandwidth from other owners.

Also: Above the storms: How satellite tech can be a lifesaver during natural disasters

If you're not familiar, satellite texting lets you send a text message when you're out of range of a traditional cell tower. It's not just convenient but possibly life-saving in the right scenario, such as in a natural disaster when communication lines are down. While features like Google's "Satellite SOS" feature only let you message emergency services, satellite texting lets you message nearly anyone.

Also: The best satellite phones

Satellite texting isn't quick, and it's limited to just text messages for now (AT&T has made a video call via satellite though), but the security of knowing it's there if you need it is nice.

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