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According to a leak on Twitter, Google is reportedly working on adding support for satellite connectivity on its messaging app. The feature is expected to debut in the upcoming Android 14 Update. The leak suggests that the Google Messages app will be among the apps to receive this feature.

Neïl Rahmouni, a Twitter user, shared an interface regarding emergency communication in the Google Messages app, hinting at the possibility of this feature. According to Rahmouni, the feature would require satellite connectivity to function properly.

However, it’s important to note that the API for this feature is currently not available for other apps, as confirmed by popular Android Developer Mishaal Rahman. Despite this, the fact that Google Messages now supports satellite connectivity indicates that more Android devices may gain this capability in the future.

The satellite connectivity feature in Google Messages will allow users to communicate via text message using satellite connectivity. Its purpose is to supplement the cellular network rather than replace it, in case of network failures or poor signal strength.

Although the feature will only be available once Android 14 is released, it will require APIs to be made available to original equipment manufacturers and other messaging app developers. It is speculated that the Pixel 7 and Pixel 8 series have the necessary components for satellite connections, but a firmware upgrade would be needed to enable this feature.

While software support is important for satellite communication, compatible hardware is also necessary. Currently, only the iPhone 14 series officially supports satellite communication. However, it is expected that many Android smartphones will incorporate this feature in the coming year.

As more information becomes available, we will provide updates on the progress of Google’s satellite connectivity feature in Google Messages.

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