Google Satellite SOS feature is here for Pixel 9 phones

Google Pixel 9 series devices are finally getting the Satellite SOS functionality. The service is being rolled out for the devices from the series. This makes them the first Android devices to actually get the Satellite SOS service outside China. A report published by Android Authority suggested that the Satellite SOS feature of Pixel phones has started rolling out today. Apart from that, a Reddit user who goes by the name winner00 also shared a screenshot of the feature.

Google Satellite SOS feature details

The Satellite SOS feature of Google became a reality with the help of an Exynos 5400 modem in the Tensor G4 processor. The mentioned modem comes with the release of 17 cellular standards that support non-terrestrial networks like satellites. The feature will allow the users to message emergency services and share their location in the absence of a cellular or WiFi network. This feature is going to work as a boon for the people who mostly are in remote areas or whose network in their region is affected by a natural calamity.

As of now, the feature is only available for users residing in the United States. And it will be available for free for the first two years. After that, the users will have to take a subscription to use the Satellite SOS service on their Pixel phones.

Until now, there has been no confirmation regarding the global rollout of the feature. Google will most probably not roll out the feature on a global level due to a lot of geopolitical notions in play. Well, the feature could still possibly roll out for a few more countries. That being said, Google also needs to make this thing more effective as their Chinese competitor, HUAWEI, has already released a phone that offers a Satellite SOS feature bundled with Satellite calling prowess.