San Francisco, California – Google is rumored to be developing a new feature for their upcoming Pixel 9 and next Pixel Fold smartphones, similar to Apple’s Emergency SOS feature. According to leaks from tech analyst Kamila Wojciechowska, Google may partner with T-Mobile to offer this feature, with the possibility of adding more providers in the future.
The proposed SOS feature by Google would require users to answer a series of questions to determine the nature of the emergency, rather than allowing them to make quick calls for help. Reports suggest that Google’s animation will guide users on aligning their phones with a satellite for better connectivity during emergencies.
One of the key questions the new feature may ask users includes their status update and location information. This move towards enhanced emergency services could potentially revolutionize the way users seek help during critical situations through their smartphones.
T-Mobile had previously announced a partnership with SpaceX for satellite messaging services, indicating a growing trend towards improving connectivity services during emergencies. With Garmin also rumored to be a potential provider for this feature, the competition in the satellite emergency services sector may lead to more affordable options for consumers.
While Garmin’s similar service currently costs $15 a month, there is speculation that Google might subsidize its SOS feature, just as Apple has done with its emergency service. The development of these new features reflects the tech industry’s increasing focus on ensuring user safety and well-being through innovative solutions on mobile devices.