Google Messages' satellite communication options may be expanded. And this feature may be used for more than just emergency connections.

In March, there were reports of a "satellite SOS" option coming to Google Messages on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7a. At the time, the idea seemed to be that Google would offer something like the emergency SOS feature via satellite found on recent iPhones, allowing users to send text alerts when there is no cellular connection in the vicinity.

Now, a recent APK teardown from 9to5 Google has uncovered a line of code indicating that the Google Messages app may be using satellite connectivity for extended use. The new line of code was found in beta version 20240329_01_RC00 of the Google Messages app.

According to the 9to5 Google report, three lines of code explain how this feature works. The first line states, "To send and receive, you must be outdoors with a clear view of the sky." This is one of the clearer lines, which makes sense given how satellite communications work and what is required compared to other options.

The second line states, "Satellite messages can be time consuming and cannot include pictures or video," which is also quite understandable. The problem is that satellite communications do not provide high quality images, primarily because of the time it takes to transmit images.

The last line is more interesting: "can message with anyone, including emergency services." This line indicates that satellite messaging is not limited to emergencies: the iPhone offers satellite communications starting in 2022, but it is primarily emergency services that users can contact. Apple allows users to connect with roadside assistance and share their location through the "Find My Phone" feature.

This line of code could be interpreted as providing more ways for message users to connect with friends and family.

There is no indication as to whether this connectivity option is limited to a network or region, or whether satellite communications can be used to connect with anyone regardless of location.

Satellite communication is expected to come to Android devices when Android 15 arrives later this year. The updated software has already seen two developer previews, with a beta version expected before the Google I/O developer conference in May.