When Google releases its new Pixel 9 series later this year the series will come with something some cell phone owners might not even think about: a new modem.Citing a Google Insider, Android Authority reports Google plans to bring the Samsung Modem 5400 to the Pixel 9 series of devices. As you might expect, the modem is an upgrade from that found in the Pixel 8 and is expected to be faster as well as more power efficient than previous models.Where the new modem is expected to really shine; however, is it will add support for 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN). That means your phone will be able to communicate with satellites, enabling the ability to send messages, especially of an emergency nature, to places where you might not typically have connectivity.The way the feature is likely to work is it will give you the ability to notify your emergency contacts you’re having an issue, after which you will be able to message with emergency services to potentially get the help you need in a particular situation.The service will reportedly initially be provided by T-Mobile in collaboration with SpaceX. The service is expected to support texts, but not calls at the onset. Those texts will also likely be responses to very specific prompts, allowing emergency services to streamline the conversation and get you the help you need quickly.
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In addition to the Pixel 9 series, the feature is expected to also be available in the next generation of the Pixel Fold.
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