For almost 30 years, June has been recognized as National Safety Month. This period aims to increase awareness regarding the factors behind preventable injuries and promote methods to ensure safety. In 2025, technology plays a significant role in this initiative. The top Android smartphones come equipped with integrated tools and features aimed at personal safety, including some that may be unfamiliar to users.
Individuals searching for a premier Android device are likely contemplating the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, the Google Pixel 9 lineup, and the OnePlus 13. Each of these smartphones includes distinct personal safety features, along with the default functionalities included with Android. The personal safety capabilities will differ based on your phone choice.
In honor of National Safety Month, we’ll shine a light on the personal safety packages available on each of these popular devices.
Samsung Galaxy S25 series
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series offers a commendable array of personal safety features, yet its true capabilities remain underutilized. It is equipped with a car crash detection sensor that is not currently activated, as well as a satellite connectivity function that is dependent on carriers rather than being universally available.
These smartphones include an Emergency SOS feature designed to summon help in crises. After completing the setup, pressing the Galaxy S25’s power button three or four times will trigger the Emergency SOS. This action sends an SOS message with your location in both address and map formats to your designated emergency contacts.
Additionally, the Samsung Galaxy S25 enhances the standard Emergency SOS functionality with a unique feature. It allows you to enable Emergency SOS to automatically take a picture using both the front and rear cameras. Another option permits your phone to send and store a five-second audio clip as well. This information could provide your emergency contacts and first responders essential context regarding your situation.
Beyond Emergency SOS, the Galaxy S25 supports medical information accessible from the lock screen and wireless emergency alerts. It will also utilize satellite connectivity if you are a Verizon customer.
To explore all available settings, open the Settings app and select Safety & emergency. From there, you can configure Emergency SOS, medical details, and more.
A solid option for safety
The Samsung Galaxy S25 grants access to essential Android safety features and also supports satellite connectivity if you are on a compatible network. However, its offerings may not be as comprehensive as those provided by Google and Apple.
Google Pixel 9 series
Google is recognized for providing its Pixel smartphones with exclusive features, and the same applies to personal safety functionalities on the Pixel 9 series. Pixels include their own Personal Safety app to access and manage these tools, such as Car Crash Detection, Satellite SOS, and Safety Check.
The Satellite SOS feature on the Pixel operates similarly to Emergency SOS on other Android devices but is enhanced by complimentary satellite connectivity. Unlike the Galaxy S25, which requires a supported carrier for satellite functionalities, Satellite SOS comes included with the Pixel 9 series. This means that if you find yourself out of range of a cellular tower, your phone can switch to satellite mode to reach first responders in case of an emergency.
You can explore the Satellite SOS feature without utilizing critical resources by activating the demo mode. Simply navigate to Settings > Safety & emergency > Satellite SOS and follow the on-screen instructions to experience it first-hand.
Additionally, you benefit from Car Crash Detection, which employs sensors and algorithms to identify when you have been involved in a vehicle accident. If a crash is detected, you will have approximately one minute to confirm your safety or request assistance. If you fail to respond, your phone will autonomously contact emergency services on your behalf. More information on Car Crash Detection and how to enable it can be found here.
The Personal Safety app also features Safety Check, which can periodically ensure your safety while you walk, run, or travel. You can input medical information on your Pixel and activate wireless emergency alerts as well.
The most comprehensive selection
The Google Pixel 9 provides the most complete assortment of personal safety features within the Android ecosystem, including tools like Emergency SOS, satellite connectivity, Car Crash Detection, and more.
OnePlus 13
The OnePlus 13 presents a basic set of personal safety functionalities, but it is less extensive compared to the options available from Samsung and Google. It features an Emergency SOS option accessible from the lock screen — simply swipe up and press the Emergency SOS button for quick access. You can also navigate to Settings > Safety & Emergency > Emergency Contacts to establish who will be contacted if you need to initiate Emergency SOS on your OnePlus 13.
Although the OnePlus 13 has the necessary hardware for satellite connectivity, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X80 5G, this feature is not enabled here. Consequently, the Pixel 9 and even the Galaxy S25 will offer superior assistance when cellular connectivity is compromised.
The OnePlus 13 provides a handful of basic functionalities, such as wireless emergency alerts and medical information, but that’s where OnePlus’s offerings end.
