Google readying 'Satellite SOS' emergency feature for Pixel devices

After years of reports about Pixel phones (starting with the Pixel 3) failing to properly connect to 911 emergency services, Google seems to finally be addressing the problem. Preparations for a new “Satellite SOS” emergency feature for calling and texting in Google Messages are underway, evidenced by a recent update to the “Adaptive Connectivity Services” app.

This Satellite SOS feature will enable Google Pixel users to call and message emergency services and share their location even in areas without cell service or Wi-Fi. It’s a major step forward for Pixel devices, potentially alleviating the frustrating and dangerous issue of failed emergency calls that has persisted across various models.

The “Satellite SOS” settings page (found in Settings > Safety & Emergency) explains how the feature works and offers customization options for shared data. It even includes a link to purchase Garmin Search & Rescue insurance. Though there already exists a page for the list of supported countries, it’s not yet functional.

As things stand, the Satellite SOS emergency feature seems exclusive to Pixel phones, but it’s still early to know if it will expand to other Android devices or even if it will be limited to certain Pixel models. However, a recent update to the Google Messages app hints at expanded functionality thanks to the addition of a SATELLITE_COMMUNICATION permission. Below are some more screenshots showcasing the new Satellite SOS feature in Pixel phones.

Prior to this development, a demo of the feature appeared on X showcasing a dedicated UI within Google Messages for satellite-based conversations and SOS messages. Granted, the latest development suggests this feature could be nearing official release. But as noted at the beginning, Google Pixel devices have been experiencing issues with 911 emergency calling for years. While this might not immediately solve the calling issue, this move is in line with what other players in the industry like Apple and Samsung.

In 2022, Apple introduced Emergency SOS on iPhone 14 series. This feature leverages non-terrestrial networks (NTN), allowing eligible iPhones to communicate via satellite during emergencies. There has also been talk of Samsung bringing satellite communication to its Galaxy devices at some point. In fact, it was highly anticipated that the Galaxy S24 series would debut this feature, but any hopes seem to have since faded away. While details are scarce, this move could bring Samsung’s flagship line on par with the iPhone’s emergency capabilities.

With Google now joining the party, it highlights the industry-wide push to make emergency communications more reliable, regardless of cellular network availability.