Satellite SOS is becoming an increasingly common feature on new smartphones and it threatens devices like Garmin’s inReach messengers outdated. But Garmin can coexist with the new phones – Google has partnered with Garmin’s Emergency Response Coordination Services for the satellite SOS feature on the new Pixel 9 series.
Currently, this service is only available in the US and only for users of the new Pixel 9 series: the Pixel9, 9 Benefits, 9 Pro XL And 9 Pro-foldOlder models are not supported.
Garmin Response handles more than 17,000 SOS activations a year in more than 150 countries. But again, Google only supports satellite SOS in the U.S. for now. That’s how Apple started out, too — perhaps Google will expand the service to new markets once all the kinks are worked out. Garmin already works with a global network of search and rescue professionals, coast guards, embassies and other organizations who can help you out of trouble.
“Garmin welcomes the opportunity to extend our proven, premium satellite emergency coordination services to the Android ecosystem, starting with the Google Pixel 9 in the U.S. Every year, Garmin Response supports thousands of SOS activations, likely saving lives. We look forward to working with Google to help people connect with emergency services when they need them,” said Brad Trenkle, Garmin Co-Chief Operating Officer.
Google has another partner in this story, Skylo. Skylo is a Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) service provider, meaning it works with a number of satellite operators and carriers around the world to provide emergency connectivity in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity.
Skylo’s network works 24/7 worldwide, so that shouldn’t be an obstacle for a broader expansion of the Pixel 9’s satellite SOS functionality. And maybe even more.
Skylo worked with both the Pixel team and the Android team at Google to develop the direct satellite connectivity feature. Android 15 will have native support for satellite messaging, allowing other smartphone manufacturers to capitalize on this as well.
“Skylo is honored to be the satellite service partner for Google Pixel. Our service has been carefully developed with both the Pixel and Android teams at Google and all of our supporting ecosystem partners,” said Parth Trivedi, co-founder and CEO of Skylo.