Google may soon add the ‘Satellite SOS’ feature for Pixel phones

Apple introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14 in 2022. The feature allows users to contact emergency services when they don’t have access to a cellular or Wi-Fi network. The advanced feature may soon make its way to Google Pixel phones. A recent update to the Adaptive Connectivity Services app suggests that the Satellite SOS feature has started rolling out to Google Pixel phones. Satellite SOS was spotted in Settings under the Safety & Emergency option.

Several Google Pixel phones users have noticed a new “Satellite SOS” option under the Safety & Emergency option in Settings app. Shown between the Emergency SOS and Car Crash Detection options. However, saving the Satellite SOS feature does nothing at this time. Gadgets360 was able to see the new option for itself on the Google Pixel 8.

Google Pixel 8 Satellite SOS

The new version (p.2024.08) of the Adaptive Connectivity Services application seems to have added support for the new feature. The Satellite SOS functionality will allow Pixel users to send messages to emergency services via satellites while unable to connect to a cellular connection or Wi-Fi. This will help users send their status or location through Google Maps during natural disasters and wilderness adventures.

Like reported from 9to5Google, the Satellite SOS feature disclaimer states that when you contact emergency services via satellite, your name, email, phone number, location, device information, and emergency contacts will be shared with emergency services and satellite service providers. Screens related to the Satellite SOS feature reportedly include links to Garmin’s search and rescue insurance plan. There is also reportedly a list of supported countries.

Although the description on the Satellite SOS page shows “your Pixel,” Google is expected to roll out the upcoming feature to other flagship Android devices.

Apple introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14. Initially, this service was exclusive to the US and Canada, and last year Apple expanded its availability to more countries. Emergency SOS collects details of their situation and then passes the data on to the relay center and emergency services.