Google Pixel phones may soon get Satellite SOS for emergencies

Google's commitment to bringing satellite support to Android 14, as promised in 2022, has not been forgotten. The company's recent moves indicate that a critical emergency SOS feature taking advantage of this satellite connectivity could be on its way to Pixel phones.

In a recent update of Google's “Adaptive Connectivity Services” application (version p.2024.08), the Google News channel on Telegram spotted references to a “Satellite SOS” feature, designed to send emergency messages using satellites when cellular and WiFi networks were unavailable. This feature would be enabled via the Settings menu of the operating system, in the “Security and Emergency” section. In this section, you will be able to find a new Satellite SOS page which offers a clear explanation of how the feature works. There is even an option to try a demo or test it in real mode.

Google “Satellite SOS” settings hidden in the code of the “Adaptive Connectivity Services” application on a Pixel | Source: Google News (Telegram)

Users will also have the ability to personalize their emergency contacts and set up automatic alerts in case of emergency. Also worth noting is the privacy disclaimer, which states that your name, email address, phone number, location, emergency contacts, and device information will be shared with emergency services and satellite service providers if Satellite SOS is used. There is also a section where a partnership with Garmin is revealed, possibly for search and rescue and global emergency response coverage. The Garmin network covers more than 150 countries on all continents, which is a good sign that support could be global.

However, as this feature is not yet available and has not been officially announced, there is currently no way to know if it will be released as a Pixel exclusive first. Hiroshi Lockheimer, senior vice president of Google, confirmed that this was in the works for Android 14, but judging by the impact of launching a new feature like this, Google might just save this announcement for the next one. Google I/O or Made by Google event.

Like Apple's current implementation, this new feature should provide users with a reliable means of communication in emergency situations, particularly in remote areas where traditional networks may not be available. Users will likely appreciate the added peace of mind that comes with access to satellite emergency messaging capabilities.