Google Pixel Phones to Introduce ‘Satellite SOS’ Feature for Emergency Connectivity
Satellite connectivity has been a sought-after feature on smartphones, particularly on Apple’s iPhone. However, Android devices have struggled to implement this feature. That is until now. Google Pixel phones are set to introduce a new “Satellite SOS” feature, and we have a sneak preview of what it will be able to do.
If you navigate to Settings > Safety & emergency on your Pixel phone, you may notice the “Satellite SOS” option appearing between Emergency SOS and Car Crash Detection. This setting has been rolled out widely to almost all Pixel devices through a recent update to Adaptive Connectivity Services.
Currently, the feature does not have any functionality. Tapping on “Satellite SOS” does not open any menus. However, through a rooted Pixel device, we were able to access the menu that Google is preparing for this feature. The Satellite SOS page provides an explanation of its capabilities.
The page states that with your Pixel phone, you will be able to message with emergency services and share your location even when you cannot connect to a mobile or Wi-Fi network. It further explains that you can call or text emergency services, share your location using Google Maps, and answer questions about your emergency. While it is unclear if you can contact anyone outside of emergency services, Google mentions that it will share your name and phone number from your Google account, as well as contact details for up to three emergency contacts.
At the bottom of the page, Google reiterates the details that will be shared when connecting with emergency services via satellite. This includes your name, email, phone number, location, device information, and emergency information. The page also provides a link to a Google support page about the countries supported by Satellite SOS, although the page is not yet live. Additionally, there is a link to a Garmin Search and Rescue Insurance plan, indicating a possible partnership between Google and Garmin for satellite connectivity.
Although there are demos available for satellite connectivity, the “Try a demo” and “Test real mode” options are currently not functional. It remains unclear when Google plans to make this functionality live. However, the widespread appearance of the shortcut on Pixel phones, combined with the detailed settings menu, suggests that it may not be too far off.
Google Pixel phones continue to innovate and provide users with new features and capabilities. Stay tuned for more updates on Google Pixel.
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