BEIJING: China has unveiled a new satellite-based short messaging service using the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), aimed at ensuring reliable communication during emergencies or in areas without cellular coverage.
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The service, announced by China Space-Time Information Co., Ltd. in partnership with the country’s three major telecom operators—China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom—allows users to send and receive text messages via satellite directly on compatible smartphones. Activation does not require changes to SIM cards or phone numbers. Currently, nearly 60 smartphone models from leading Chinese brands support the new functionality.
China has launched a new satellite short messaging service leveraging the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), designed to provide reliable communication during emergencies when ground-based mobile networks are unavailable. #XinhuaNews pic.twitter.com/2yuxXAaLat
— China Xinhua News (@XHNews) February 6, 2026
According to the company, the service is designed to complement terrestrial mobile networks, providing a critical communication channel in scenarios such as remote mountain treks, maritime operations, or disaster relief coordination. “This represents a major advancement in making satellite communication technology accessible to the public,” the company said, adding that the system offers “concrete technological safeguards” for everyday use.
China Space-Time Information, the national operator of BeiDou services, is a key player in satellite navigation, communications, big data services, artificial intelligence, and geospatial remote sensing. The new service leverages BeiDou’s built-in short-message communication capability, enabling reliable messaging even in regions where conventional mobile networks are unavailable.
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Experts say the move strengthens China’s satellite communication infrastructure, increasing both public safety and operational efficiency in sectors that rely on secure and uninterrupted communications.