Robert Triggs/Android Authority
long story short
- Google is preparing a “Satellite SOS” feature for Pixel devices.
- Satellite SOS will allow users to contact emergency services if they are unable to connect to a mobile network or Wi-Fi.
- It’s unclear whether the feature is exclusive to Pixel or will be rolled out to other Android devices.
Even before launch, Google confirmed that Android 14 will bring satellite communication support. Since then, we’ve seen plenty of evidence that the tech company is developing an emergency SOS feature that will use this satellite connection. Now, a new update to the Adaptive Connectivity Services app suggests that Google may be preparing to add the feature to Pixel phones.
as found Google News On Telegram, the p.2024.08 version of the Adaptive Connectivity Service app appears to pave the way for a new “Satellite SOS” feature. This feature will allow you to send a message to emergency services via satellite if you are unable to connect to a mobile network or Wi-Fi.
If you go into Settings, you can find Satellite SOS under Security & Emergency. The Satellite SOS page provides a brief description, an explanation of how the feature works, and two buttons that allow you to “try the demo” or “test real mode.”
Additionally, there is a disclaimer that when you contact emergency services via satellite, your name, email, phone number, location, device information and emergency contacts will be shared with the emergency services and satellite service provider.
There’s also an introduction to Garmin Search and Rescue Insurance, which includes a link listing supported countries. Garmin provides emergency response services via satellite in more than 150 countries on all seven continents, so you’re likely to have support.
Although the description on the Satellite SOS page directly refers to “your Pixel,” that doesn’t necessarily mean the feature will be exclusive to Pixel devices. We’ll have to wait and see if Google expands the feature to other Android phones.