Google Pixel 9 with Satellite Messaging

[QuietButDeadly]

Anybody have one and tried the sat msg yet?

I know the newer Apple phones are supporting sat msgs but I do not Apple. A quick search showed that the new Google Pixel 9 on Verizon is the only Android phone and carrier supporting sat msgs right now. Cell service sucks at our new place in VA so I am interested in the sat msg capability.

Just checking to see if anyone has any experience with it.

 

[ibgreen]

The first and second generation pixel phones were good. No experience with the 9 but my previous pixel had a motherboard go out and was quite a bug riddled device. The repair tech agreed that the new ones were a financial windfall for him.

 

[Moose]

I use zoleo with an android and it works great.

 

[QuietButDeadly]

To use the Zoleo App, you have to have the Zoleo Satellite Communicator and an active messaging plan if I understand it correctly. Device is on sale for $149 with 2 year warranty. Minimum Plan with 25 msgs per month is $20 + .50 for each additional msg. Probably not terrible if there are no other options.

Not sure what the deal is with Apple supporting sat msgs but I know my son is planning to go that route.

What I found today says Pixel 9 and all of its iterations (already available) supports sat msgs. And Verizon says they support sat msgs with the Pixel 9 with their Ultimate Unlimited Plan which would be an upgrade from what I have now but there would be no addition charge for sat msgs. And it looks like I can get the new phone for almost free.

I may go by a Verizon Store to try to make sure I am understanding it correctly and pull the trigger if it is what it appears.

 

[Moose]

Yes you need the zoleo device..... I use it for my place in Va where I have zero cell service. Mostly to communicate with family members, check the weather, and carry it with me on the property when I'm doing stuff that I could potentially get hurt. The sos feature makes my wife a lot more comfortable when I'm off by myself. I've never come close to using up my monthly limit.

 

[QuietButDeadly]

The Verizon store could not find a roll out date for the sat msgs other than this fall. But the literature they had indicated that there would not be any extra charge for sat msgs.

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[TobyScreams]

I upgraded to get iPhone satellite messaging. There is no charge, for now. The phone only offers it as an option when there is no signal. So far, what that means for me is the Zoleo is where it’s at. Especially in those extremely weak signal times where the phone has one bar but it’s totally useless for calls or messages. It won’t replace the Zoleo but may supplement if something goes sideways.

 

[HotSoup]

Waiting for a starlink option myself