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You might be able to count on one hand the number of times you've been in a remote area without a cell signal or Wi-Fi connectivity—unless you're making regular excursions into the backcountry. But in those moments, it's crucial to have some way to make contact with emergency services or loved ones in case things go south.
Satellite messengers have been essential gadgets for wilderness explorers for years. But in 2023, Apple enabled satellite messaging functionality in select iPhones. Now, Google is doing the same on its Pixel 9 smartphones, and it's a feature you can expect to crop up in more Android phones come 2025. The device that does it all, which you probably have on you at all times, is now even more useful in emergencies and might even save your life. Here's how Google's Satellite eSOS works on the Pixel 9 series.
How to Use Satellite eSOS
Satellite eSOS is Google's name for its satellite emergency messaging service, and it's currently only available in the US (but not in Alaska or Hawaii) on the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It will be free for the first two years since its launch (just like Apple's similar service on iPhones), but you should expect to have to pay for the service in some way after that period. Google says its service will roll out to additional territories over time. The only caveat to using it is you need to use the Google Messages app as your default texting app.
When you're in an emergency, dial 911 as you usually would. If your Pixel doesn't have a cell signal or Wi-Fi connectivity, you'll now see an option to use Satellite SOS in the dialer app. You can tap on Satellite SOS > Use Satellite SOS > Start. Compatible phones come preloaded with a demo of the experience, and I strongly suggest you experiment with it to get familiar with the process. You can access the demo by heading to your phone's Settings > Safety & Emergency > Satellite SOS > Try a demo. It walks you through the entire process so you'll know how to use it (which you hopefully never have to do).
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You should be sure to keep your personal information up to date. That includes your emergency contacts (which you can configure at Settings > Safety & Emergency > Emergency Contacts) and your Google Account. Your “name, email, phone number, location, device information, and emergency contacts are shared with emergency services and satellite service providers.”
When you tap Start on Satellite SOS, you'll first be prompted to answer a few questions about your emergency, like whether you're in a vehicle, and if anyone is in immediate danger. Once you answer these questions, you can then connect to a satellite. You'll see a giant circle on the screen suggesting directions to point your phone. It'll need to be flat in your palm, and you'll need to be outdoors, away from buildings, trees, and mountains (as best as you can). For the best signal, make sure your grip doesn't interact with the upper half of the Pixel.
Once you point your phone in the right direction, it should connect. Now you'll get a text message view where you can send messages to emergency services detailing the situation, and hopefully, you'll have first responders en route soon after.
Now just because you can use smartphones like the Pixel 9 or iPhone 15 to reach emergency responders via satellite doesn't mean your phone is suddenly the best option for backcountry connectivity. Satellite messengers are more rugged and durable, and since you're probably not using them all the time like you would be using a smartphone, they have better battery life. They also offer more features, like creating waypoints. All in all, Satellite eSOS is a helpful backup feature, but if you're regularly going to be in remote areas with limited to no cell connectivity, there's still a place for dedicated satellite messengers.
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
Google Pixel 9 Series$799 at Google Store (Pixel 9)$999 at Google Store (9 Pro)$1,799 at Google Store (Fold)
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