The Google Pixel 10 series is finally here, bringing with it upgrades like a new Tensor G5 chipset, all manner of new AI software tricks, and Qi2 support.
Announced in an admittedly awkward event on August 20, Google’s latest also comes with all the best parts of the Pixel 9, including Satellite SOS support.
Here’s what you need to know about it, and how to get Satellite SOS ready on your shiny new Pixel 10 before you need it.
What is Satellite SOS on Pixel 10?
Satellite SOS is a safety feature on Google Pixel smartphones, introduced in 2024’s Pixel 9 series and available on the new Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL.
It’ll also be available on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold when that phone is released in October.
The feature can connect you to help by using a satellite connection when you’re out of range of either a Wi-Fi or terrestrial data signal.
When you’re connected, you’ll be able to communicate with an emergency services provider by text. You’ll also be able to share your current location with both emergency services and your emergency contacts.
Satellite SOS service is available for free for two years after your Pixel 10 purchase. Google is yet to confirm how much the feature will cost outside that initial two-year window.
The service is available in the US, Canada, and much of Europe, including the UK, Ireland, Germany, France, and more. For a full list of supported locations, check Google’s official documentation.
How to configure Stellite SOS on Pixel 10
Google’s Satellite SOS feature is enabled by default on compatible Pixel phones.
You’ll get a notification when Satellite SOS is ready to use on your phone, and at a baseline, that’s all the setup you need. Just wait for your Pixel 10 to tell you Satellite SOS is configured.
To make the best use of Satellite SOS, though, there are a couple of additional steps you should take.
First, if you want to share your location with people you know when using Satellite SOS, you’ll need to set up emergency contacts.
To designate emergency contacts, open the Personal Safety app (it’s labeled Safety in the app drawer), tap Your info in the bottom navigation bar, then tap Emergency contacts.
On the emergency contacts screen, tap + Add contact to choose emergency contacts from your full contacts list. You can have multiple emergency contacts at once.
When using the Satellite SOS feature in an actual emergency, your Pixel will give you the option to share your location with these designated emergency contacts, in addition to sharing it with emergency services.
Your Pixel also has a feature that lets you practice the Satellite SOS workflow without actually contacting emergency services.
To try it out, open your phone’s Settings, tap Safety & emergency, then go to Pixel Satellite SOS. Scroll down and tap Try a demo.
During the demo, your Pixel will disconnect from Wi-Fi and wireless signals, then walk you through the process of connecting to a satellite and texting with an emergency services facilitator.
You’re not actually contacting emergency services in this instance.
The demo, like the feature itself, works best outdoors with an unobstructed view of the sky.
After you’ve configured emergency contacts and familiarized yourself with the Satellite SOS system, you’re ready to go.
How to use Satellite SOS on Pixel 10
Satellite SOS kicks in automatically when a call to emergency services fails to connect. Here’s how it works, step by step.
- Try to call 911, even if you don’t have a signal.
- If the call fails to connect, the Phone app will prompt you to use Satellite SOS.
- Tap Satellite SOS and follow the prompts to begin.
- Your Pixel will ask questions about your situation. Fill out the questionnaire to provide emergency services with necessary information.
- You’ll be given the option to send your location and information to your emergency contacts. Tap Notify or Don’t notify, depending on your preference.
- Follow on-screen prompts to connect to a satellite.
- A Google Messages chat will open to connect you to an emergency service provider. They’ll walk you through getting help.
There are a couple of key things to bear in mind about this process.
For one, Satellite SOS is only available if Google Messages is set as your Pixel’s default text messaging app. You’ll get a notification telling you Satellite SOS is unavailable if you change the default to a different app.
Additionally, connectivity can vary based on your location, the weather, and other factors, and sending and receiving text messages via satellite may be slower than it would be over other connections.
Satellite SOS works best when you’re outdoors with a clear view of the sky.
This feature could potentially save your life
Satellite SOS is a feature you’ll hopefully never have to interact with, but it’s always possible you could find yourself stuck somewhere remote without a cellular connection.
The feature is enabled by default, but it’s best to familiarize yourself with its ins and outs before you actually need Satellite SOS to call for help.
The Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold all support Satellite SOS, so you’ll be equally protected with any of Google’s latest. Just make sure your battery is topped up before you head out.
- SoC
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Google Tensor G5
- RAM
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12GB
- Storage
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128GB / 256GB
- Battery
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4970mAh
- Operating System
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Android 16
- Front camera
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10.5 MP Dual PD selfie camera
This striking-looking addition to the Pixel line offers a slew of Gemini features, an x5 telephoto lens, and seven years of updates, making this a smartphone that will last you a while.
