Google ends Safety Signal on December 12. Safety Signal let LTE models of the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 reach emergency features over a cellular connection without a standalone carrier plan, for people with Google Health Premium. Google announced the change in its Pixel Watch Community on October 8.
Which watches are affected
Google's post names two models: the Google Pixel Watch 2 (LTE) and the Google Pixel Watch 3 (LTE). Engadget reports that Safety Signal was only ever offered on those LTE models. Google's post does not say whether the change reaches any other Pixel Watch model.
What ends, and when
Existing Safety Signal users will get advance notice by email and push notification. The features stay available without a standalone carrier plan for a 30-day transition period that starts on the date of that email. Google's wording is that access ends on Dec 12, and that "after Dec 12, 2026, this access will end." The post does not name a last day.
Google gives its reason as "evolving our connectivity and safety capabilities." The post does not name a replacement feature.
What still works
Google says Emergency SOS, Fall Detection and Safety Check will keep working when the watch is connected to Wi-Fi, paired over Bluetooth with a phone nearby, or connected to an active cellular line through a carrier.
Some coverage left out the carrier case. The Verge's report lists only Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Google's post includes all three.
What owners can do
Google's post says owners who want Emergency SOS, Fall Detection and cellular access away from their phone can set up a mobile plan or eSIM through a supported carrier. Google's help article, "Manage your Google Pixel Watch with a cellular plan," has the steps. Check them there. The post does not name carriers or give plan prices, so owners will need to check those with their carrier.
