Google is rumored to be collaborating with T-Mobile to bring an emergency SOS feature similar to Apple’s to its upcoming Pixel 9 and Pixel Fold devices. As per leaker Kamila Wojciechowska, who writes for Android Authority, the partnership with T-Mobile is just the beginning, and other providers may be included later on.
The purported SOS feature on Google’s devices would prompt users with a series of questions, akin to Apple’s system, in order to understand the situation accurately. An animation video showcased in the Android Authority article illustrates the steps users will need to follow to align their phones with a satellite. Wojciechowska mentioned some of the questions the feature might ask, such as determining what happened, the number of people involved, if anyone is breathing, if there are weapons or fire present, and the type of vehicle or vessel involved.
Although T-Mobile had already announced a partnership with SpaceX for a satellite messaging service, pricing details were not disclosed at the time. Furthermore, last year a developer discovered code in Google Messages that hinted at Garmin being the provider for this feature. Garmin already offers a similar service for its InReach messaging devices, utilizing the Iridium satellite network that promises global coverage. However, whether the SOS feature is offered through T-Mobile or Garmin, it may not be available for free, with Garmin’s service starting at $15 per month.
Apple currently subsidizes their SOS service for users, suggesting the possibility that Google might also provide a subsidized or affordable service. While further details regarding pricing and additional providers remain undisclosed, if the rumors are accurate, the introduction of an SOS feature to the Pixel devices could provide users with an essential safety tool in emergency situations.
The collaboration between Google and T-Mobile to introduce an emergency SOS feature to the upcoming Pixel 9 and Pixel Fold devices is speculated to be a significant development in the industry. This feature, similar to Apple’s system, aims to provide users with a way to quickly and accurately communicate their emergency situations.
The proposed SOS feature on Google’s devices will prompt users with a series of questions in order to gather detailed information about the emergency. This will help emergency responders understand the situation better and provide appropriate assistance. The step-by-step animation video showcased in the Android Authority article demonstrates how users will need to align their phones with a satellite to utilize this feature effectively.
While T-Mobile has already announced a partnership with SpaceX for a satellite messaging service, the pricing details for this collaboration have not been disclosed yet. Additionally, there were previous indications that Garmin could be the provider for this feature, as Google Messages contained code that pointed towards Garmin’s involvement. Garmin already offers a similar service through their InReach messaging devices, utilizing the global coverage of the Iridium satellite network. However, whether the SOS feature will be offered through T-Mobile or Garmin, it is likely that there will be a cost associated with using it, with Garmin’s service starting at $15 per month.
Apple currently subsidizes their SOS service for users, suggesting the possibility that Google might also provide a subsidized or affordable service for their users. This would be a significant advantage, as it would make the emergency SOS feature more accessible to a wider range of users. However, further details regarding the pricing and involvement of additional providers are still undisclosed.
Overall, if the rumors about the introduction of the SOS feature to the Pixel devices are true, it could prove to be an essential safety tool for users in emergency situations. The collaboration between Google and T-Mobile, along with the potential inclusion of other providers in the future, highlights the industry’s focus on developing technologies that prioritize user safety and well-being.
For more information on emergency communication technologies, you can visit the GSMA Emergency Communications page.
The source of the article is from the blog yanoticias.es