Tech Desk
Aug 29, 2024
Verizon is set to offer its satellite-based messaging service to its users this fall, enabling them to contact emergency services in under-developed areas with poor or no cellular coverage.
The mobile carrier claimed that the feature is designed to complement Apple's existing Emergency SOS feature, which allows satellites to connect to iPhones in remote areas. However, this feature will also work on Android devices.
“Starting this fall, customers on qualifying smartphones will have access to emergency messaging and location sharing in the limited cases when traditional cellular networks are not working properly,” Verizon said.
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Previously, Apple was the first to debut a satellite connectivity feature in the iPhone 14 series in 2022 and has plans to expand it to regular messaging with the iOS 18 release.
Following that, Google also introduced satellite connectivity for Emergency SOS with its Pixel 9 series.
Reportedly, Verizon is partnering with the California-based Skylo to enable satellite connectivity to send and receive text messages in areas with no or little coverage. Skylo also partnered with Google to offer emergency satellite connectivity for its Pixel 9 phones.
Verizon revealed that the connectivity will be available on select devices. However, the company didn’t confirm how much the satellite feature might cost.
