Google has expanded its partnership with satellite connectivity provider Skylo to bring satellite features to the new Pixel 10 series smartphones and the Pixel Watch 4. This advancement enables users to share their location, send messages, and access emergency services via satellite, even without cellular service or a phone connection.
Satellite Connectivity Comes to Pixel 10 and Pixel Watch 4
Much like the Pixel 9 series, the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold now support satellite connectivity through Skylo’s network. The Pixel Watch 4 is also equipped with this feature, powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chip, which supports standalone emergency messaging without needing a phone or cellular plan.
Parthsarathi Trivedi, CEO and co-founder of Skylo Technologies, described this new feature as a game-changer that “redefines what’s possible with satellite connectivity in everyday devices, including the one that’s in your pocket or on your wrist.”
Pixel Watch 4: The First Device with Integrated NB-NTN Satellite Connectivity
The Pixel Watch 4 stands out as the world’s first device to integrate NB-NTN satellite connectivity, providing direct access to Skylo’s satellite network for emergency services and location sharing straight from the wrist, independent of any phone.
John Kehrli, Senior Director of Product Management at Qualcomm Technologies, highlighted that integrating satellite service with Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 platforms allows device makers to offer “life-saving connectivity anywhere — without needing a phone, tower, or terrestrial signal.”
Satellite Features Across Pixel Devices
Skylo’s satellite capabilities on the Pixel devices include:
- Satellite SOS: Direct connection to emergency services in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia. Currently, Pixel Watch 4’s satellite SOS is limited to the US but will expand soon.
- Location Sharing via Satellite: Ability to send live location from remote areas through Google Maps or Find Hub.
- Satellite Messaging: Enables messaging via satellite, though availability depends on cellular plan.
These features make Pixel’s latest lineup well-suited for outdoor adventurers, remote workers, and anyone needing reliable communication where cellular coverage is sparse or nonexistent.