Google to End Free Cellular Access for Safety Features on Older Pixel Watches

<figure> <img alt="Person looking at Nest Doorbell notification on Pixel Watch 3" src="https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/chorus/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25610322/247234_Pixel_Watch_3_AKrales_0494.jpg?quality=90&amp;strip=all&amp;crop=0,0,100,100" /> <figcaption> </figcaption> </figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Google announced through a community post on October 8, 2026, that the LTE versions of the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 will lose free access to the Safety Signal feature. This feature, which includes Emergency SOS, Fall Detection, and Safety Check, previously allowed users to connect to cellular networks without needing a carrier plan. The connectivity was part of a Google Health Premium subscription, but starting December 12, 2026, users will need to pay for a mobile plan to continue using Safety Signal on an LTE network.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Existing users with free access will receive notifications and an email regarding this change. The Safety Signal features will still be available with a paid plan.</p> <p><a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/1008145/google-pixel-watch-1-2-free-safety-signal-emergency-access-ending">Read the full story at The Verge.</a></p>