Google is reportedly working on integrating a satellite-based text messaging feature into the Google Messages app, industry insiders said. The new functionality is expected to leverage Garmins emergency SOS via satellite service, which is currently operational in over 150 countries across seven continents.French developer Neil Rahmouni shared insights on the potential development on the social media platform X, noting that strings of code related to satellite-based text messaging were discovered in the latest version of Google Messages. The presence of these code snippets suggests a potential collaboration between Google and Garmin to introduce this feature.“Looks like Google Messages may use Garmin Response for the Satellite Emergency SOS. If true it could mean that Emergency Satellite messages would be available in 150+ countries,” Rahmouni tweeted.Looks like Google Messages may use Garmin Response for the Satellite Emergency SOSIf true it could mean that Emergency Satellite messages would be available in 150+ countries👀https://t.co/egVqM6JaJV(1st screen is a mockup, 2nd are the translations found in Google Messages) pic.twitter.com/Rza9BUxJwJ— Neïl Rahmouni 🐢 (@neil_rahmouni) August 28, 2023However, in the same thread, Rahmouni warned against taking the information too seriously, as it might be subject to change any time. Google has previously announced that Android 14 will support satellite communication natively. However, the specific devices that will benefit from this feature remain unclear, as it requires specialised hardware.Who is Garmin, the company slated to help Google MessagesGarmin, a well-established player in the satellite communication domain, already offers a range of satellite communication products and services, including emergency response centres that aid in coordinating rescue operations. Partnering with Garmin would allow Google to tap into existing satellite infrastructure, saving on infrastructure investment.What other devices have satellite messagingApple has already introduced satellite-based emergency SOS services for the iPhone 14 series, utilising Globalstar satellites. Although Apples service is currently free and operational in limited regions, it is not available in certain areas, including India.Qualcomm, a prominent technology company, recently unveiled the Snapdragon X75 modem, which supports advanced 5G technologies and Snapdragon Satellite. This latter feature is hailed as the worlds first satellite-based solution offering two-way messaging capability. It is expected to be incorporated into the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip.
