The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 are the only Android phones in the US to support Satellite SOS connectivity. This enables them to connect to emergency services even when they’re out of mobile network or Wi-Fi coverage. Until now, this life-saving connectivity feature has been available only in the US. That will change this December, as it will roll out to at least one European country.
French carrier Orange announced that it will launch its satellite-powered SMS feature in France. While the carrier is available across Europe and Africa, it’ll initially limit its “Satellite Message” service to its home market. The feature will roll out to the public starting December 11, 2025. Businesses and enterprise customers can start using it in 2026 (via 9to5Google).
Orange has partnered with Skylo and will utilize its satellite network for the messaging feature. This is the same satellite operator Google has teamed up with to provide emergency satellite connectivity on Pixel devices in the US. Verizon also utilizes Skylo’s satellites to power its own satellite-based texting service.
Initially, Orange says its satellite messaging feature will only work on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 family. The carrier will expand Satellite Message to more devices and regions once the temporary exclusivity ends. This will include other European countries, including Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and even the United States and Canada.
Only free for the first six months
Orange will offer Satellite Message for free for the first six months to its Orange 5G and 5G+ subscribers. After that, the feature will cost €5 per month. For comparison, emergency satellite connectivity is free on Pixels and iPhones in the US.
Once the feature rolls out in December, Pixel users can send a text to emergency services or their friends, including their location, when out of mobile network or Wi-Fi coverage.
Admittedly, Apple’s implementation of satellite connectivity is far more polished than what Pixel phones or Orange’s Satellite Message offer. Besides being able to contact emergency services, it also powers features like Roadside Assistance and Find My. All these are handy and potentially life-saving options.
Apple also supports a much wider list of countries, making its satellite system far more practical for travelers.
