The Google Pixel 10 series has just launched, and it already has one jaw-dropping feature: it’s the world’s first smartphone to support WhatsApp satellite calling — both voice and video calls. Yes, the Pixel 10 will let you make a WhatsApp call even when you’re completely off the grid.
The feature officially goes live on August 28, 2025, the same day the Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold hit shelves. Sadly for us in Kenya, this groundbreaking connectivity is starting as a US-only exclusive.
Why WhatsApp satellite calling is a big deal
Until now, satellite features on smartphones have been more about emergencies than everyday use. Apple’s iPhone 14 and newer models only allow SOS texts over satellite. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 introduced satellite messaging earlier this year, but it’s still limited to text through certain carriers.
Google is the first to push beyond messaging, turning satellite connectivity into something practical with full-on WhatsApp voice and video calls via satellite. Imagine being in the middle of Maasai Mara or hiking in Turkana with zero cell coverage, and still being able to make a WhatsApp video call. That’s the kind of future the Pixel 10 hints at.
Why launch in the US, not Kenya or India?
Interestingly, WhatsApp isn’t even America’s favourite messaging app. Over there, iMessage, Messenger, and FaceTime rule the chats. But WhatsApp is king in Kenya, India, Nigeria, and Brazil.
So why launch in the US? Likely because the satellite rollout is already happening there with T-Mobile and Starlink leading the way. Google needed a test market, and the US checked all the boxes. But it’s easy to see how markets like Kenya and India, where WhatsApp dominates daily communication, would benefit the most from this tech. Unfortunately, Google hasn’t shared any global roadmap yet.
Still, Kenya may be better positioned than most African countries. Safaricom has already partnered with Texas-based AST SpaceMobile and is reportedly exploring another satellite play most likely with Starlink which could give it a head start in rolling out services like satellite SMS and calls. But don’t count out Airtel either.
Airtel Africa has already partnered with Starlink to expand internet access into rural Africa and has also been doubling down on 5G and expanding rural connectivity in Kenya. But more future partnerships in satellite services wouldn’t be surprising. Since Google’s fine print is clear that local carrier support is a must, Airtel could easily move to compete with Safaricom in bringing this feature to Kenyan Pixel users.
In short: the Pixel 10 has the hardware and software ready, but whether you’ll actually be able to call via satellite in Kenya depends on how quickly carriers like Safaricom and Airtel move to support the technology.
Of course, there are caveats. Google’s own announcement mentions that:
- Satellite WhatsApp calls will only work with participating carriers.
- Extra charges may apply on top of your usual bill.
- You’ll need to be outdoors with a clear sky view.
- There may be slight delays compared to normal cellular calls.
Still, the idea of WhatsApp satellite calls puts Google miles ahead of rivals. Even T-Mobile’s “T-Satellite” only supports SMS/MMS, and Apple’s SOS feature is still emergency-only. The rollout covers the entire Pixel 10 lineup, from the standard Pixel 10 to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
For now, if you’re in Kenya and eyeing the Pixel 10, you’ll still get Google’s usual flagship perks — AI features, excellent cameras, and premium design. But we’ll have to wait our turn for WhatsApp satellite calling.
Until then, consider this: one day soon, you could be standing on a cliff in Samburu, phone in hand, and still manage to hop on a WhatsApp video call. Now that’s the kind of future worth waiting for.
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