Google’s March 2025 Update Brings Satellite SOS and Messaging
Google rolled out the Satellite Messaging with Android 15 Beta 2 after also introducing it in Google I/O ’24 keynotes event. Android 15 activated Satellite Messaging option for eligible devices on eligible network and regions. This included the Google Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8, and 8 Pro, wherein the users reported successfully activating Satellite Messaging in the United States on T-Mobile and Sprint networks.
The March 2025 Pixel Drop expands emergency connectivity to the Google Pixel 9 series and also new countries and regions are included.
For Verizon users, the Pixel Drop enables connectivity to emergency services via satellite when cellular or Wi-Fi networks are unavailable, ensuring help is never out of reach. Similarly, T-Mobile users benefit from the ability to text 911 and access satellite services during critical moments.
Satellite connectivity for Verizon and T-Mobile
If you’re a Verizon user and you’re somewhere without cellular or Wi-Fi, Pixel can connect to emergency services via satellite to get help. Verizon gets Skylo satellite eSOS and SMS messaging connectivity. However, it’s available only on Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold in English and Spanish, in the US as of now. It also does not support voice, video, group messaging, media attachments, emojis, encryption or sender/recipient activity. SMS will work.
Google says, connection and response times vary based on location, site conditions, and other factors. Must be outside with line of sight to satellite; might not work in parts of Alaska.
Similarly, for T-Mobile users, you’ll now be able to text 911 during an emergency and Pixel can connect to emergency services via satellite to get help. T-Mobile gets Starlink satellite connectivity.
However, it’s also only available on Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold for eligible T-Mobile users. In English and Spanish in the US. Connection and response times vary based on location, site conditions, and other factors. Does not support voice and video calls.
Satellite messaging support on smartphones is making its rounds. Following Apple’s announcement of Emergency SOS via satellite for the iPhone 14 or later, Google and Samsung have implemented the same on their smartphones as well.
These life-saving features are quite important when it comes to user safety, providing a reliable communication lifeline in areas where traditional networks may falter. Satellite connectivity enhances the practicality of Pixel devices.
What is Satellite Messaging?
As the name suggests, using Satellite Messaging, you can send and receive text messages by satellite as part of an eligible T-Mobile account.
Satellite messaging on Android 15 utilizes a network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These satellites enable direct communication with mobile devices equipped with the necessary hardware and software support. Satellite communication ensures coverage in areas devoid of cellular network including remote wilderness, oceans, and disaster-stricken regions.
How it works?
When you don’t have a mobile network, your phone will auto-connect to a satellite. For the best connection, keep a clear view of the sky.
After your phone connects to a satellite, you can text anyone, including emergency services. Your phone will reconnect to a mobile network when available.
How to Access Satellite Messaging on Google Pixel?
- Navigate to Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Select SIMs.
- Choose T-Mobile.
- Look for Satellite Messaging.
