Garmin reveals extent of Garmin Response satellite SOS support on Android smartphones
Google has just released the Pixel 9 series alongside the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Watch 3 (curr. $349.99 on Amazon). Available as the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the four smartphones all centre around Google's new Tensor G4 chipset. According to Garmin, Google's Pixel 9 smartphones are also the first Android devices to support Garmin's emergency satellite response technology.
For context, evidence that Google and Garmin were working to integrate Garmin Response support for Android devices initially emerged almost a year ago. In a press release, Garmin's Co-Chief Operating Officer stated the following:
Garmin welcomes the opportunity to expand our proven, premium satellite emergency response coordination services to the Android ecosystem, starting with Google Pixel 9 in the U.S. Each year, Garmin Response supports thousands of SOS activations, likely saving lives in the process. We are looking forward to collaborating with Google to help people connect to emergency services when they need them.
Theoretically, Garmin Response will kick in when a Pixel 9 series handset has no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. While the feature is exclusive to Google's latest smartphones at this stage, Garmin has hinted at eventually expanding support 'across additional Android devices'. Please note that Garmin Response usage on the Pixel 9 series carries some caveats.
For instance, Pixel's Satellite SOS feature must be set up before it can be used; it cannot be used for the first time in an emergency situation. Additionally, Google and Garmin will only provide the feature for the 'first two years after activation of devices'. Unfortunately, neither party has provided any details about how much this feature will cost when its free period is exhausted.
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