Google is discontinuing Safety Signal on the LTE versions of the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3, ending free cellular access to emergency features by December 12, 2026. Both Engadget and The Verge report that users will receive email and push notifications with advance notice, and that a 30-day transition period begins once that notice is sent. After the cutoff, features such as Emergency SOS, Fall Detection, and Safety Check will require an active carrier mobile plan to work over LTE.
The two reports largely agree on the timeline and the affected devices, but they differ slightly on the details. Engadget emphasizes that Safety Signal provided emergency SOS, fall detection, and calls between emergency contacts without a wireless plan for the watch. The Verge adds that the free access was included as part of a Google Health Premium subscription and specifically lists Safety Check among the affected tools. Both note that the features will continue to work without a mobile plan when the watch is connected to Wi-Fi or paired to a smartphone over Bluetooth.