Step 3: Be Patient With the Connection
Satellite links are slower and more fragile than normal 4G/5G connections:
- Messages can take several seconds to a few minutes to send.
- Stay as still as you can and keep the phone pointed as indicated on-screen.
- Keep your battery in mind: satellite features use extra power, so only send what’s necessary.
Important: You’ll only see the satellite options if your phone cannot detect a cell network or WiFi signal. If you are still connected to any network, the satellite menu won’t appear.
Practice Before You Need It
To avoid fumbling in a real emergency, Apple provides a Satellite Connection Demo on supported phones so you can safely test how it works without actually calling emergency services.
How To Connect an Android (Pixel 9) to Satellites
NOTE: At the time of writing, satellite connectivity on Android is limited, and Google Pixel 9 is currently the only Android model with built-in satellite emergency calling as described here. Availability may vary by region and carrier.
Step 1: Attempt a Normal Emergency Call
On the Pixel 9, emergency satellite connection is designed to be as automatic as possible:
- Make sure you are in an area with no WiFi and no cellular service.
- Open the Phone app and dial 911 (or your local emergency number) like you normally would in a crisis.
If the phone cannot connect via traditional networks, it will detect that and:
- Offer you the option to connect to a satellite to complete your SOS call.
- Guide you on positioning the phone for the best possible satellite link.
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