Google is bringing satellite connectivity feature to Android phones to send SOS messages requesting emergency help in remote areas. Last year, Apple introduced this facility in the iPhone 14 series of phones. But this benefit of Apple is available only in few countries. This feature of Google is available in almost all Android phones in all countries.
A report by technology website XDA cites X Platform user Neil Rahmouni as saying.
According to Rahmouni's account, Google is believed to be working with Garmin to launch a satellite messaging service on Android phones. Garmin Satellite works with SOS service and their coverage is much higher than other companies. Rahmouni claims that Google and Garmin will provide the emergency SOS message facility in about 150 countries.
According to the report, it would be good news for Android users if Google works with a satellite operator like Garmin. Because Garmin company will give good coverage for SOS message to Google. If this is true then Google will be ahead of Apple in satellite SOS message service.
Other than the Google Messages app, no other third-party apps have satellite-based messaging features yet. But this picture will change when the API of Google's satellite communication feature is open to developers.
সংগৃহিত ছবি / Screenshot collected from Twitter
This feature is expected to be available in Android 14 version. When this facility is enabled, the user can send SOS messages through the Google Messages app from places where there is no mobile network.
Google's service is free to use just like Apple's. However, the possibility of asking Google and Apple customers for a subscription fee to take full advantage of the service cannot be ruled out.
The feature will be open to everyone. But using it requires a device with advanced hardware. That is, this feature cannot be used on mid-range or entry-level phones. This feature is only available on phones like the Samsung Galaxy S23 model.
