satellite messaging Archives

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Google’s March Pixel Drop is here with a ton of Android upgrades

Google's latest Pixel Drop update enhances the Pixel series with new features, including expanded satellite messaging capabilities for the Pixel 9 series, which now supports users in Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, and parts of Europe. This feature allows users to connect to compatible satellite networks for emergency assistance when cellular service is unavailable. The update will also support Verizon and T-Mobile for satellite messaging. Additionally, the Pixel 9 family introduces a video recording feature that enables simultaneous recording from multiple angles using another Pixel device or a compatible GoPro camera. The AI-powered scam detection feature will be available on all currently supported Android devices, allowing Google Messages app users to identify potential scam texts, while comprehensive phone call scam alerts will remain exclusive to the Pixel 9 series.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

March 2025 Feature Drop: Connected Pixel 9 Camera, Satellite SOS expands, app updates

Google has announced the March 2025 Pixel Feature Drop alongside Android 15 QPR2, which includes various enhancements for first-party applications, camera functionalities, and connectivity options. The update features Gemini Live powered by Gemini 2.0 Flash, enabling multilingual conversations in over 45 languages. The Pixel 6+ introduces Talk Live for discussions about images and videos, while the Pixel 9 series gains a "Connected Camera" feature for livestreaming with GoPro HERO10 Black or newer devices. The Pixel Fold series adds Dual Screen mode for video recording. The Satellite SOS service is now available in Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, the UK, and Europe for Pixel 9 users, allowing emergency contact without cellular coverage. T-Mobile and Verizon users can utilize carrier satellite messaging for emergency calls and texts. The Pixel Studio app on the Pixel 9 series can now generate images of people, and Pixel Screenshots will suggest items for Collections. Japanese users gain access to Pixel Screenshots, Studio, AI summaries, and weather reports, while German users receive similar enhancements. The Phone by Google app introduces real-time Scam Detection, and Google Messages will show scam alerts in conversations. The Gboard Voice Toolbar is now available on phones.

BetaBeacon

February 10, 2025

Android 15 unveiled: Smarter AI, stronger security, and game-changing features

- Android 15 includes Smarter AI with Gemini AI for personalized recommendations based on usage patterns - Enhanced Security Measures include Theft detection lock feature and Identity Check for biometric authentication - Improved Multitasking with App Pairing and Partial screen recording - Better Connectivity with Satellite Messaging and advanced NFC for contactless payments - Sleek Design with polished animations and Dynamic Colors - Device Availability: Google Pixel 6 will be the first to receive the update, followed by Samsung and OnePlus.

AppWizard

December 17, 2024

Here’s what satellite messaging could look like in Google Messages

T-Mobile is set to begin beta testing a satellite messaging service in partnership with Starlink, specifically designed for Android 15 users. This service will allow users to send messages via the Google Messages app when outside cellular or Wi-Fi range. Users will receive a prompt to connect to satellite messaging on the Google Messages home screen and during one-on-one chats, though group chats may not be supported. Selecting the “Connect” option will initiate a satellite connection, but it is unclear if the connection will automatically disengage when cellular or Wi-Fi access is restored.