News

Google is set to launch an Emergency SOS feature for Android devices, taking a cue from Apple’s iPhone. This innovative feature, which utilizes satellite technology, allows users to establish emergency contact even in areas with no cellular connectivity.

The news was first discovered by Neil Rahmouni, a top user of the tech forum X, and further details have since been revealed. Images show that Google Messages will be equipped with this emergency feature, allowing users to send SOS texts via satellite.

This move by Google does not come as a surprise, as the company had previously mentioned its plans to add satellite support to Android 14. Since the Messages app is the standard platform on many Android phones, adding satellite connectivity was essential before launching a new messaging app.

The Emergency SOS feature is expected to assist Android users in emergency situations. Apple’s SOS feature, which also utilizes satellite technology, has already proven to be a lifesaver. There have been instances where families were rescued from wildfires in Hawaii’s Maui region thanks to this feature.

Currently, there is no information available about when this emergency feature will be available on Android phones. Additionally, it may not be compatible with all devices as it requires modern hardware.

Huawei and Apple are currently the only two companies that have utilized satellite connectivity in their mobile phones. Huawei, in fact, beat Apple to the punch by rolling out their satellite feature one week earlier on the Mate 50 and Mate 50 Plus devices.

This development by Google is seen as a positive step, providing Android users with a vital tool for emergency situations where cellular connectivity is not available.

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