It is speculated that Google will offer emergency satellite connectivity with the Pixel 9 series. A Samsung Exynos 5400 modem integrated into the company’s next-generation Tensor G4 chipset is believed to enable satellite access in the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro.
Google hasn’t revealed any details about the feature yet, but a new leak shows how the satellite connection system works in the Pixel 9 series. The interface shows that animations help the user move the phone to connect to nearby active satellites.
Nail Sadykov (@Nail_Sadykov) posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing the Android interface when users try to connect to a satellite. As shown in the video, the interface instructs the user to point the phone at the satellite. To ensure connection, users need to hold the satellite icon in a circle. The interface can be minimized to a floating window to view other applications or send text messages with emergency services while connected to the satellite, Sadikoff says.
The author also claims that Satellite SOS users will receive a notification telling them to “stay away from buildings, trees and mountains and maintain a clear view of the sky.” This is to ensure that the satellite signal is not blocked by obstacles.
A recent report citing Google insiders claims that the Pixel 9 series, Pixel Fold 2 and Google’s rumored 5G tablets will feature satellite connectivity. The Pixel 9 family could be the first devices to support Android’s native satellite implementation.
Google is reportedly working with T-Mobile to integrate satellite connectivity features into Android 15. We may add more providers later. Samsung’s new Exynos 5400 modem with the Tensor G4 chipset is said to offer an updated software stack that enables satellite-based communications.
The satellite connection will reportedly enable text messaging. To detect emergencies, users are asked basic questions with predefined answers.