Google Pixels could soon have satellite SOS functionality

Google will soon offer a tool that has already been available on iPhones for over a year. It remains to be seen when and where.

When it comes to new features on Android, Pixels are the place to look. The Mountain View company is doing everything possible to show the way to other manufacturers, and it is its devices that serve as showcases, to the delight of users.

As proof, Google just rolled out an update that suggests satellite connectivity could be within reach.

A Glimpse of a Glimpse

If you go to the settings of your Pixel phone, in the “ Safety and emergencies », you may have access to a new functionality: SOS by satellite. However, don’t plan your next hike in the depths of the Pyrenees just yet, because nothing is operational at the moment, not even the demo mode. However, our colleagues at 9to5Google were able to get their hands on it, and they give us a taste of this new thing in the making.

The relevant section confirms that it will indeed be possible “ send messages to emergency services and share your location when you can’t connect to a mobile or Wi-Fi network “. The device will ask you to answer questions about your current situation and send various information to emergency services, such as your name, telephone number and the contact details of three people to contact if necessary.

Some outstanding questions

How this all works is not yet very clear. Google has not yet communicated on the subject, and the support page linked to the feature is also inoperative. It is therefore difficult to know when and where it will be available. However, another link leads to a Garmin Search and Rescue insurance plan, which suggests that Garmin will be the Mountain View firm’s partner of choice, at least in some parts of the world.

It’s been a little over a year since Apple introduced satellite alerts with its iPhone 14. The feature has already proven useful, including saving the lives of a woman and her dog. Android users have not been completely neglected in the meantime, however, since Motorola has been offering the Defy Satellite Link for several months, an accessory capable of connecting to a smartphone via Bluetooth. However, with a price of around 200 euros, Pixel owners could well be patient before offering it. Just to see if Google doesn’t take too long to make the feature operational, the company seems to be on the right track after all.

Source : 9to5Google