Google is giving Pixel 9 owners another year of free Satellite SOS connectivity, extending the emergency feature beyond its original two-year limit without introducing any additional charges.

The feature first arrived with the Pixel 9 series in August 2024, allowing users to contact emergency services through a satellite connection when mobile networks and Wi-Fi aren’t available.

Google initially promised two years of free access after activation, meaning early Pixel 9 owners would have reached the end of that period in August 2026. However, the company has now confirmed that the service will remain free for another year.

Speaking to PCMag, Google confirmed the extension, saying: “Confirming that we’ve extended this offering, at no additional cost, for one additional year. We have no details to share beyond that at this time.”

For Pixel 9 owners, that’s welcome news, particularly for anyone who regularly travels to areas with poor mobile coverage.

Satellite SOS is designed for emergencies rather than everyday messaging, providing a way to reach help when conventional connections aren’t available. However, Google notes that the service is only supported in select countries and languages, with connection and response times depending on location and surrounding conditions.

The extension also raises questions about whether Google intends to charge for Satellite SOS in the future. According to Google’s support page, the feature is included at no additional cost for the first two years after activation.

The company has yet to announce any subscription plans or pricing beyond the latest extension.

Google isn’t alone in keeping satellite connectivity free for longer than originally promised. Apple recently confirmed that it would also extend complimentary access to its satellite features for eligible iPhone 14, iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 users, although it hasn’t revealed what the service might eventually cost.

For now, Pixel 9 owners can continue using Satellite SOS without paying extra. Whether Google eventually turns the feature into a paid service remains unclear, but the latest extension means users have at least another year before that becomes a concern.