How does the Pixel Watch 3's Emergency SOS feature work without a charged phone

How Emergency SOS Works

1. Activation:
- To activate the Emergency SOS feature, users can press the crown button five times in rapid succession. This action initiates a call to emergency services or an emergency contact if configured[1][3].

2. Connectivity Requirements:
- LTE Model: If you have the LTE version of the Pixel Watch 3, you can make emergency calls directly from the watch without needing a paired phone. This model requires an active LTE plan to function properly[3][4].
- Wi-Fi Model: For Wi-Fi only models, the watch must be connected to a paired phone via Bluetooth to place emergency calls. If the phone is not charged or out of range, this feature will not work[1][3].

3. Loss of Pulse Detection:
- The Pixel Watch 3 includes an innovative Loss of Pulse Detection feature that automatically detects when a user’s heart stops beating. If this occurs and the user does not respond to prompts from the watch, it will automatically call emergency services and relay important information, including location data[2]. This feature operates independently of a phone connection if the watch has LTE capabilities.

4. Emergency Location Services:
- When making an emergency call, if Emergency Location Services (ELS) are enabled, your location may be shared with emergency responders. This service is typically on by default for LTE models and can be activated in the settings for Wi-Fi models when connected to a phone[3][4].

5. Emergency Contacts:
- Users can add emergency contacts that may be notified in addition to or instead of calling emergency services directly. This setup allows for flexibility in how emergencies are handled[1][5].

Summary

In summary, the Pixel Watch 3's Emergency SOS feature is designed to be effective even without a charged phone, as long as it has an active LTE connection. The watch can autonomously call emergency services in critical situations, especially with features like Loss of Pulse Detection enhancing its life-saving capabilities. For users with Wi-Fi-only models, keeping their phone charged and within range remains essential for utilizing emergency features effectively.

Citations:
[1] https://www.androidpolice.com/enable-fall-detection-emergency-sos-google-pixel-watch/
[2] https://blog.google/products/pixel/pixel-watch-3-loss-of-pulse-detection/
[3] https://support.google.com/googlepixelwatch/answer/12663810?hl=en
[4] https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/7055029?p=personalsafety_help&rd=1&visit_id=638619046644315892-565125318
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/PixelWatch/comments/y8imzs/emergency_sos/
[6] https://store.google.com/intl/en_uk/ideas/articles/pixel-safety-features/
[7] https://store.google.com/intl/en/ideas/articles/pixel-safety-features/
[8] https://deviceguides.vodafone.co.uk/google/pixel-watch-3-android-wear-os/basic-use/use-sos-function/

What happens if the Pixel Watch 3's Emergency SOS feature can't connect to emergency services

If the Pixel Watch 3's Emergency SOS feature is unable to connect to emergency services, several fallback mechanisms and considerations come into play:

Potential Outcomes When Unable to Connect

1. Automated Messages:
- If the watch detects a potential crash and cannot connect to emergency services, it may attempt to play an automated message. This message typically includes your location information, which can help responders locate you even if direct communication fails[2][4].

2. Emergency Contact Notifications:
- Users can set up emergency contacts that may be notified in lieu of connecting to emergency services. If the SOS feature cannot reach emergency responders, it may still alert these designated contacts, allowing them to provide assistance[1][5].

3. Location Sharing:
- When Emergency Location Services (ELS) are enabled, the watch can attempt to share your location with emergency services automatically when a call is made. If the call fails, this location data may still be transmitted to your emergency contacts if they are notified[1][2].

4. Manual Intervention:
- In cases where the watch cannot connect, users are encouraged to manually seek help if possible. This might involve trying to call emergency services directly using another device or seeking assistance from nearby individuals[4][5].

Limitations and Considerations

- Network Dependency: The ability of the Pixel Watch 3 to connect to emergency services heavily relies on having an active LTE connection for standalone functionality. If the watch is a Wi-Fi model, it must be within Bluetooth range of a paired phone[2][5].

- Weak Signal Areas: In areas with poor cellular coverage, the watch may struggle to establish a connection, making it crucial for users in such environments to have alternative plans for emergencies[2][4].

- Emergency Number Variability: Depending on the region, the default emergency number may not be appropriate (e.g., calling 911 in countries where that number is not used). Users should ensure their watch settings reflect local emergency numbers whenever possible[3][5].

In conclusion, while the Pixel Watch 3's Emergency SOS feature is designed for critical situations, its effectiveness can be limited by connectivity issues and regional settings. Users should familiarize themselves with these aspects to ensure they can receive help when needed.