Satellite SOS and messaging FAQs

Satellite messaging is a text messaging service that lets you connect when you’re in an area with no cellular network service. Satellite SOS connects you to 911 via text messsaging.

These services use satellites instead of cell towers to connect you.

Verizon partners with Skylo to provide satellite services for select Android smartphones.

Skylo is a global, non-terrestrial network service provider offering smartphone and IoT cellular device connectivity over existing satellites. Skylo SOS messaging is already available.

Good to know: Learn more about using satellite services on select iPhones by visiting Use Apple Emergency SOS via satellite on your iPhone or Send a text message via satellite on iPhone.

To use Satellite SOS and text messaging on select Android smartphones:

• An eligible smartphone.
• Google Messages must be the default app for messaging on your Android device.
• Line of sight to satellite is required to connect.

Satellite SOS and Satellite messaging* are currently available with these phones:

• Samsung Galaxy S25
• Samsung Galaxy S25+
• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
• Pixel 9 Pro Fold
• Pixel 9 Pro XL
• Pixel 9 Pro
• Pixel 9

Select Android smartphones can use satellite SOS and messaging in non-coverage areas within the Continental US, Hawaii and Alaska.

Keep in mind: Satellite connectivity requires select new model phones with updated software. Must be outside with a line of sight to the satellite. Satellite connectivity might not work in parts of Alaska.

When you’re in an area with no network service, you can access 911 with Satellite SOS through Skylo. A supported Android smartphone is required.

Learn how to use Satellite SOS.

When you’re in an area with no network service, select Android smartphones can send text messages* by satellite through Skylo.

*Multimedia Messaging (MMS), Rich Communication Services (RCS), and attachments aren't supported.

Currently, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) or Commercial Mobile Alert System alerts aren’t supported over Skylo.

No, there is no extra fee to use Satellite SOS and messaging with Skylo.

When you’re in an area where your select Android phone can use Satellite SOS and messaging, your phone will display ‘No Service’.

Here’s what to do in an emergency:

1. Dial 911 and follow the on-screen instructions.
2. Answer questions in the Satellite SOS dialog when prompted.
3. Garmin Response sends this information to local emergency responders.
4. Follow the onscreen instructions to maintain line of sight to the satellite and continue the conversation with Garmin Response in Google Messages.
5. You can also select an option to notify your emergency contacts about your location and emergency details.

If your phone doesn’t have cellular or Wi-Fi service and you try to send a text through Google Messages:

1. A dialog box for satellite messaging opens.
2. Follow the onscreen instructions.
3. Continue texting in Google Messages and maintain a clear line of sight to the satellite.

Keep in mind: Only 2-way basic text messaging is supported.