Here’s how Google Pixel 9’s new modem powers satellite connectivity

Google is still working on Android 15, and we’ve gotten quite a glimpse of new features thanks to the developer preview and the first beta that arrived a few days ago. Satellite connectivity is expected to be a big part of Android 15, with features like satellite-based text messaging said to be in the works. Subsequent reports revealed that Android 15’s implementation of satellite connectivity will allow users to send text messages to their contacts even in non-emergency situations. We’re currently learning about Google’s plans to support satellite connectivity at the hardware level starting with the Pixel 9 series this fall.

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Kamila Wojciechowska, who has a well-established track record of Pixel leaks, writes (via Android Authority) that the Google Pixel 9 will introduce new features. Exynos modem 5400It is reportedly “faster and more power efficient” than the previous generation Exynos Modem 5300 used in both Tensor G2 and G3 chips. According to the leak, the new modem should also have improved stability thanks to an upgraded software stack.

The modem will be part of the all-new Tensor G4 chipset first debuting in the Pixel 9 series, and Wojciechowska says the same SoC will be used in the Pixel Fold 2, with the next modem being more He says it will be believable. The Google foldable generation will debut with the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro.

This exclusive report also mentions a 5G Pixel tablet in development (clementine), reportedly using the same Tensor G4/Exynos Modem 5400 combination. However, Wojciechowska’s sources were unable to provide an exact launch schedule for her Android tablet.

Google Pixel 9 satellite connection

Wojciechowska wrote that in addition to the modem’s usual performance upgrades, it supports 3GPP Release 17 and officially supports 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). This makes the Pixel 9 series the first products to support Google’s satellite connectivity implementation in Android 15. Wojciechowska said this satellite-based text-only service will initially be offered by T-Mobile, with other networks potentially joining later.

This leak also revealed new information satellite gateway The app allows users to contact emergency services using an in-vehicle feature called “Emergency SOS.” Thanks to further research by Wojciechowska, we found out that the app asks users several preset questions related to the emergency situation, including: What best describes your situation? to What type of vehicle or vessel? Designed to read the situation. There is also an option to send a message to all listed emergency contacts.

Meanwhile, each question will have its own answer selected to speed up the process of contacting emergency services. Google also understands that satellite connectivity requires specific positioning. This is explained to the user using the animation shown above. Not much is known about the Pixel 9 at this point, but support for satellite-based texting could be one of its major highlights. Early rumors also talk about a third version of the Pixel 9 coming in the fall, but we’re not big fans of this idea.