Sounds like they’re trying to parity match what iOS is doing now with emergency situations

I doubt they’re gonna let you use it willy-nilly.

Yes and it'll likely be expensive, but it can very much save lives. When you're very remote and need to tell someone your location, or you need help, that's where it really shines. From what I hear too, it's not exactly fast either so probably not for real time texting or chatting willy nilly.

There is already a bluetooth device you can purchase that works with most any smartphone - it allows you to subscribe to a text messaging service which uses satellite communication (only a few messages per month if I recall correctly). I forget the brand but it hit the market like a year ago.