Google Accidentally Adds Pixel Satellite SOS to All Phones with September Play Update
Google showcased a new useful feature called Satellite Messaging at the Google I/O ’24 keynotes, which was released with Android 15 and later on Android 16 with enhanced capabilities for newer devices. Android 15 & 16 activate Satellite Messaging option for eligible devices on eligible networks and regions. This included the Google Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8, and 8 Pro, 9 series, wherein the users reported successfully activating Satellite Messaging in the United States on T-Mobile and Sprint networks.
However, Pixel Satellite SOS is a new feature exclusive to the latest Pixel phones. With Pixel Satellite SOS, you can message with emergency services and share your location when you can’t connect to a mobile or Wi-Fi network. This service may not be available at all times in all locations or circumstances.
How does Pixel Satellite SOS work?
- Follow steps to connect to the satellite
Once you’re connected, you can message with emergency services and share your location in Google Maps - Call emergency services
If you don’t have a mobile or Wi-Fi network, you can use Satellite SOS in supported countries - Answer questions about the emergency
Send answers to emergency services to get you the right kind of help
Google Pixel Satellite SOS: The Unexpected Update That Sparked Confusion and Questions
Google Pixel ecosystem: Satellite SOS functionality appears to have been added to older Pixel devices through the September Google Play system update. What was initially marketed as an exclusive feature for Pixel 9 or newer series phones suddenly showed up on Pixel 6, 7, and 8 devices, leaving users excited, confused, and ultimately disappointed when it was reported that it was actually a bug.
Pixel users started reporting that Satellite SOS options had mysteriously appeared in their Safety and Emergency settings. Multiple users with Pixel 6, 7, 7a, 8, and 8a devices confirmed seeing the new feature after the September Google Play system update, showing the satellite communication option sitting prominently in device settings where it hadn’t existed before.
For context, Google had positioned Satellite SOS as a flagship feature exclusive to the Pixel 9 lineup when it launched. The company’s official support documentation explicitly stated: “This feature is available on Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 10 series only.” The sudden appearance on older devices naturally raised questions.
Satellite connectivity typically requires specialized modems and antenna configurations. However, users discovered significant differences in functionality between devices. While Pixel 9 and 10 series devices included a “Try a demo” button that allowed users to test the satellite connection without sending actual emergency messages, older Pixel devices showing the Satellite SOS option lacked this testing capability.
Google’s official channels report, “This feature is available on Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold only.” The Pixel 10 series is absent from the list, meaning the knowledge base hasn’t been updated yet.
Just as quickly as the feature appeared, it began disappearing from some devices. Users reported that Satellite SOS options vanished from their Pixel 7a and Pixel 8 devices after initially showing up.
So will the Pixel 6, 7, and 8 series devices see the Pixel Satellite SOS feature? Probably not. We will have to wait and see.
Geographic Limitations
Satellite SOS isn’t a universal feature; it requires partnerships with satellite network providers and regulatory approval in different countries. Unlike GPS, which is globally available, satellite communication networks have limited coverage areas.
Satellite SOS Availability
The Satellite SOS feature is currently available in Canada, the US, and Puerto Rico, as well as the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom.
Activation: The feature will be activated once all the necessary conditions are met.
The Two-Year Free Trial Question
Buried in the fine print of the Satellite SOS settings was another detail: “Satellite SOS is included at no charge for 2 years.”
Possibly a subscription model, which mirrors Apple’s approach with iPhone satellite features.
It may have been a bug that Google reverted for older Pixel devices.
