In the wake of Hurricane Helene, a number of personal accounts appeared on social media and product forums, where users detailed how The iPhone’s satellite connectivity feature helped them during the natural disaster. On the Android side, Qualcomm’s ambitions with satellite connectivity for Android phones have gone nowhere. Android 15, however, finally brings some salvation.

advertisement

Earlier this year, Google announced that Android smartphone users will be able to connect with a satellite in emergency scenarios where they are out of range of cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. Like Apple’s approach, it doesn’t matter what transport services users have used; the satellite SOS feature will be ready when needed. Notably, Google will offer the service for two years at no additional charge, in line with Apple’s commitment.

Now, before you go ahead and set up satellite messaging on Android, there are a few caveats you should be aware of. So far, the feature is exclusive to phones in the US, with the exception of Hawaii and Alaska. In addition, Google only extended it to Pixel 9 phones in the series, and it is not known if the facility will reach more phones (from Google or other Android brands) in the near future through a software update or through carrier partnerships.

advertisement

In terms of software, the prerequisite for using the satellite connection on compatible phones is the Google Messages app. In particular, the app should be set as the default messaging app on a phone. Also, there is a crucial distinction here. Unlike the iOS 18 upgrade that allows users to send and receive text messages to friends and family while connected to a satellite link, Android phone users can only communicate with emergency services. With the requirements out of the way, here are the steps to follow if you are stranded in a place without network coverage and need to contact emergency services:

advertisement

1. Open the Phone app and call 911.
2. You will see a Satellite SOS option appear on the screen. Tap it, followed by a confirmation prompt.
3. Tap the Start option.
4. You will now be presented with a questionnaire to describe your emergency situation.
5. When asked if you want to broadcast the emergency to your contacts, tap the Notify option.
6. On the next page, users will be presented with on-screen prompts to connect with a satellite band. Make sure you are under a clear view of the sky. As soon as the connection is established, you should receive a response from emergency personnel in the Messages app.

Google has also created a demo experience for how the whole process works for compatible Android phones. To check, open the Settings app, go to Safety & Emergency, then tap on Satellite SOS. Note that when the demo is live, all mobile networks are temporarily shut down, but will resume as soon as the test experience ends.