The Google Pixel 9 and the successor to the Pixel Fold may have an SOS function to send emergency signals via satellite communication. The service is reportedly initially only offered by T-Mobile in collaboration with SpaceX.
The SOS function, similar to Apple's Emergency SOS, would prompt users to answer a series of questions to identify an emergency situation, as reported by Kamila Wojciechowska of Android Authority. For instance, the device may inquire about what happened, the number of individuals involved, whether there was a fire, and which vehicle was involved. Subsequently, a message can be sent to emergency services to request assistance.
The SOS function does not support making calls, but it does allow users to notify pre-set emergency contacts with a message. There have been circulating rumors for some time regarding the introduction of the SOS satellite function to Android, following the discovery of references to the function in an operating system update. At that time, there was no information available about its potential availability.
According to Android Authority, the function will be integrated into the Pixel 9 and Pixel Fold 2. However, it remains uncertain whether the emergency satellite function will extend to other Android devices or which countries will initially receive this feature. In late 2022, Apple announced a similar emergency feature would launch in the United States, Canada, and select European countries. Emergency SOS has been accessible in the Benelux region since March 2023.
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