Satellite SOS is becoming increasingly common on new smartphones, threatening to make devices like Garmin's inReach messenger obsolete. But Garmin can coexist with the new phones: Google has partnered with Garmin Response emergency response coordination services for the new Pixel 9 series' Satellite SOS feature.
Currently, this service is only available in the United States and only for users of the new Pixel 9 series: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold. Older models are not supported.
Garmin Response handles over 17,000 SOS activations per year in over 150 countries. But then again, Google only supports satellite SOS in the US for now. That's how Apple got started, too. Maybe once all the kinks are worked out, Google will expand the service to new markets. Garmin already works with a global network of search and rescue professionals, coast guards, embassies, and other organizations that can get you out of trouble.
“Garmin is excited to expand its proven, premium satellite emergency response coordination services to the Android ecosystem, starting with the Google Pixel 9 in the U.S. Each year, Garmin Response supports thousands of SOS activations, potentially saving lives. We look forward to working with Google to help connect people to emergency services when they need them,” said Brad Trenkle, co-chief operating officer, Garmin.
Google has another partner in this space, 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 operates 24/7 around the world, which is also no obstacle to a broad expansion of the Pixel 9's satellite SOS functionality. And maybe even more than that.
Skylo worked with the Pixel team and Google's Android team to build the satellite connectivity feature “directly on the device.” Android 15 will have native support for satellite messaging, which could also allow other smartphone manufacturers to get in on the act.
“Skylo is honored to be the satellite service partner for Google Pixel. Our service has been meticulously developed with Google’s Pixel and Android teams as well as all of our supporting ecosystem partners,” said Parth Trivedi, Co-Founder and CEO of Skylo.
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