Google won’t start charging for the Satellite SOS feature on its Pixel 9 series phones just yet, despite the timer having run out.
Satellite SOS was introduced on the Pixel 9 series and has been in place on every Pixel phone released in the time since. The feature grants your phone access to limited satellite connectivity in emergencies, offering a lifeline in dangerous, off-grid situations.
But Google only promised this would be free for “the first 2 years after activation.”
A support page footnote still reads:
Service included at no additional charge for the first 2 years after activation of devices. Available in select countries and languages. Connection and response times vary based on location, site conditions, and other factors.
- Everything you should know about Satellite SOS on Pixel 9 before you ever have to use it
As of August 2026, that timer was up for Pixel 9 series devices. Yet, Google showed no signs of charging for the feature, but it wasn’t exactly clear what would happen next. Now, the company has confirmed that, at least for another year, Satellite SOS on Pixel 9 remains free.
The company confirmed the news to PCMag, saying:
Confirming that we’ve extended this offering, at no additional cost, for one additional year. We have no details to share beyond that at this time.
So far, there have been no hints even behind the scenes of Google introducing a way to charge for Satellite SOS on Pixel phones. Apple, which introduced this functionality prior to Google, recently confirmed that it would also be extending the “free trial” of satellite connections for iPhone 14, 15, and 16, and there’s also no word on what Apple might charge for the feature.
Would you pay for Satellite SOS on your Pixel if Google starts charging for it?
More on Google Pixel:
- Google releases officially refurbished Pixel 9 devices starting at $499 with an extra perk
- Google starts rolling out its upgraded Pixel screen savers to the Pixel 9
- What has been the best Google Pixel to date? [Poll]
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