Google may copy Apple and launch satellite emergency SMS on Android

Google will develop a Satellite emergency SMS service for Android phonesA similar feature to the emergency SOS introduced on the iPhone 14 last year, this feature was developed for use in areas without cellular signal or Wi-Fi. The possibility was raised by developer Neïl Rahmouni last Sunday (27).

The specialist, in his profile on the social network X, Added pseudo-function code in next version of Google Messages appcurrently in testing phase, discovered by himself. The report suggests that the vehicle will be offered in partnership with Garmin.

“Apparently Google Messages could use Garmin Response for satellite emergency SOS,” Rahmouni wrote. “If true, this means: Satellite emergency messages will be available in more than 150 countries”the programmer speculated.

Looks like Google Messages could use Garmin Response for Satellite Emergency SOS

If true, could this mean that Emergency Satellite messages will be available in over 150 countries? https://t.co/egVqM6JaJV

(1st screen is a mockup, 2nd screen is translations found in Google Messages) pic.twitter.com/Rza9BUxJwJ

— Neil Rahmouni?? (@neil_rahmouni) 28 August 2023

The service mentioned Iridium satellite networkClaiming to make the security tool available on all continents, even in the most remote places, and without any telephone signal. When enabled, the function allows you to send a distress message to the rescue team responsible for tracking the device and calling the authorities.

Subscription possibility

If emergency SMS via satellite is indeed rolling out to Android in partnership with Garmin, it is possible for the tool to require a subscription. Currently, the monthly fee for the satellite SOS service of the American company is $15, which is equivalent to R$73 per day.

The function, which is currently limited to 14 countries on iPhone, released free for two yearsPayment can be made at the end of the term, although Apple has not released information about the price. It uses Globalstar’s satellite network.

Google has previously stated that it plans to launch the service on Android 14, but has yet to comment on this new rumor.. Separately, Qualcomm is preparing to offer the kind of service that leverages Iridium satellites, called Snapdragon Satellite, which can be found on mobile phones from Motorola and other brands.