Google’s new Pixel 9a is missing a major safety feature from the Pixel 9 series

Google’s Pixel 9a, while offering a compelling package at its $499 price point, comes with one fairly notable omission: Satellite SOS. Based on a leak that revealed the baseband version, we speculated that this might be the case but now a Google spokesperson has officially confirmed to Android Authority that the Pixel 9a won’t get support for Satellite SOS.

Satellite SOS, which allows users to contact emergency services in areas without Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, debuted with the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. These devices, powered by the Tensor G4 and Samsung’s Exynos Modem 5400, are currently the only Pixel models that support this technology.

The exclusion of satellite SOS in the Pixel 9a stems from its use of the older Exynos Modem 5300, the same modem found in the Pixel 7 and 8 series. This decision, likely made to maintain the device’s super competitive price, means the Pixel 9a does not have satellite messaging capabilities and won’t be able to receive them via a feature drop.

This feature was initially limited to the continental United States, but Google recently expanded its availability to include Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, Europe, and the UK with the March Pixel Drop update. This expansion highlights the feature’s potential to provide critical connectivity in remote or underserved areas, making its omission from the Pixel 9a a significant drawback for users who might find themselves in such situations.

In addition to satellite SOS officially not being supported, deliveries of the Pixel 9a are also going to take longer than first expected. Originally slated for a March 26th release, Google has pushed the launch to April, citing a “component quality issue.” This delay has resulted in the cancellation of pre-orders across the Google Store and retail partners like Best Buy. So, are you still considering the Pixel 9a? Let me know in the comments below!