Google Pixel 10 Series to Debut With Satellite Connectivity Despite Switch to MediaTek Modem: Report

Google is said to make a switch from Samsung Foundry to MediaTek for the modem in its Pixel 10 series, but it will not affect an important connectivity feature on the phones. The handsets, which are expected to be unveiled later this year, have been rumoured to feature the Tensor G5 chipset developed in collaboration with TSMC instead of Samsung. However, this might not be the only change. A recent report claims that while Google's decision to move away from Samsung Foundry will affect the modem used in the purported handsets, they will still support satellite connectivity on the Pixel 10 lineup.

MediaTek Modem in Google Pixel 10 Series

Android Authority reports that evidence of satellite connectivity on the Google Pixel 10 series was discovered following an APK teardown of the Adaptive Connectivity Services app version 2025.17. Code strings includes references to select Pixel models having Satellite SOS capabilities, which have been matched to previously known codenames of the Pixel 10 models.

One of the strings mentions a device with an identifier GLBW0, which is said to be the Pixel 10. Meanwhile, G4QUR and GUL82 reportedly reference the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL, respectively. While the code snippet does not mention the purported Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, it may be possible that the company adds it later on, considering the handsets are still some time away from launch.

Notably, the Adaptive Connectivity Services app is speculated to be responsible for the Satellite SOS feature on Pixel devices in addition to handling their 4G and 5G network connections. However, the functionality also reportedly relies upon the Satellite Gateway app, which provides a user-friendly interface to use satellite-based connectivity.

Previous reports indicate that Google will be switching from Samsung Foundry to TSMC for the development of a custom-built chip, ubiquitously known as the Tensor G5 chipset, which may power the Pixel 10 series. As part of this strategy, it is also said to ditch Samsung's Exynos modems in favour of the MediaTek T900 modem, which is yet to be launched. Thus, details remain under wraps but it is speculated to be based on MediaTek's “M85” generation modem IP.