What you need to know
- Google seems to be working on a satellite messaging feature in Google Messages for Android 15.
- The recent beta version of Google Messages gives us the best look at how satellite messages in Google Messages will work.
- The feature appears to be more useful than Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite, as Google wants to let you text anyone (not just emergency services and roadside assistance) — even if there’s no emergency.
Google has been working behind the scenes on satellite messaging for Android, and a new beta version of the Google Messages app revealed how the company might implement the feature in Android 15. In March, we learned that Google wanted to let Android users send messages to anyone via satellite and not plans to limit the features to emergency and roadside assistance calls. Now, the latest beta version of Google Messages provides further evidence that you’ll soon be able to text anyone over a satellite connection.
9to5Google has leaked the Google Messages beta APK, which has a version number 20240329_01_RC00. The site reports that the following strings detected in the APK are related to the satellite link:
- To send and receive, stay outside with a clear view of the sky
- Satellite messaging may take longer and may not include photos and videos
- You can communicate with anyone, including emergency services
These strings describe what you can and can’t do with satellite messaging in Google Messages. The company recommends that users stay outside to have the best chance of establishing a good connection with the satellite overhead. This follows similar guidelines for other satellite features that have shipped in the past, such as Apple’s SOS for emergencies via satellite. Plus, Google says you can’t share photos and videos via satellite, which makes sense.
Namely, the strings explain that satellite messaging will allow you to “message with anyone.” This is different from Emergency SOS via satellite as the iPhone feature only works in emergencies when users need to get in touch with emergency services, roadside assistance and emergency contacts.
9to5Google also spotted Android 15 notifications that shed light on satellite connectivity. When the mobile network is not available, users will receive an “automatically connect to satellite” notification. This explains that users can “send and receive messages without cellular or Wi-Fi.” System notifications can be interacted with via Open Messages and How does it work buttons.
There’s still a lot we don’t know about satellite connectivity in Android 15, like which companies will help support the feature. Google has tied up with T-Mobile and Garmin for satellite connectivity services, but nothing has been confirmed yet.