Edgar Cervantes/Android Authority
long story short
- A few lines of code from the Google Messages app explain how satellite messaging works.
- One line mentions “You can send a message to anyone, including emergency services.”
- The line suggests that users will be able to use satellite messaging for more than just emergencies.
Last month, we reported seeing lines of code in the Google Messages app that directly referenced satellite messages. These strings are followed by simpler strings that include the words “emergency” and “emergency demonstration,” suggesting that satellite messaging can be used in emergencies. Now, new lines of code indicate that the satellite connection can be used to send messages to anyone.
In the APK teardown, by 9 to 5 googleLines of code explaining how satellite messages work in the Google Messages app were discovered in beta 20240329_01_RC00. Reportedly, these strings represent:
- “To send and receive, stay outside with a clear view of the sky”
- “Satellite messages may take longer and cannot contain photos and videos”
- “You can send a message to anyone, including emergency services”
While the first two lines are fairly explanatory, the third string is particularly interesting. The way it was worded suggested that satellite messaging would not be used only for emergencies. Instead, the feature can be used to contact “anyone.”
iPhones have had satellite messaging capabilities since 2022, but the feature can only be used to contact emergency services. However, Apple’s solution does let you connect to roadside assistance, send your location via Find My, and share certain information with emergency contacts.
Satellite connectivity is expected to come to Android phones with the release of Android 15. Once launched, users will be able to send and receive messages without mobile or Wi-Fi service.