Google Pixels Are Still Having Problems Calling 911

Over the past few years, Google’s Pixel phones have had recurring problems calling 911, and the problem has reared its ugly head once again. Over the past 24 hours, several Reddit users have complained about not being able to call 911, while carrier Bell in Canada issued a warning that Pixel 6s and later were also having difficulty contacting emergency services on its network.

According to user Fabulous_Disaster730, who posted yesterday about difficulties contacting emergency services during a gas leak, her Pixel 9 Pro repeatedly asked her to turn on Wi-Fi calling or turn off airplane mode before she could call 911, even though she had full signal on 5G and Wi-Fi. The phone would then freeze and restart. After several attempts, she decided to ask a friend to make the call for her.

Several replies also mentioned similar issues yesterday, across multiple networks and Pixel models. Bell was, however, the only operator to issue an official notice.

Besides the obvious danger, the problem with this bug is that it is not consistent. Although it appears to have had an increase yesterday, this has been a known issue since 2021. However, it does not affect all users nor is it entirely predictable when and how it will appear. While there have been recent reports of calls that simply didn’t go through, one user posted two months ago that his call went through, but he only heard screaming and static on the other end of the line. These recent reports are just the latest in an evolving concern.

It is also unclear what the cause of the problem is. In 2021, the issue was attributed to Microsoft Teams, but even with this error fixed, users are still facing issues. To Google’s credit, Bell said it contacted the company shortly after learning of yesterday’s spike in cases, and later said a fix had been released. However, no other carriers have issued similar reviews and I wouldn’t be surprised to see other users file their own complaints in the future.

It’s worth noting that Bell mentioned that Pixel 6 and up users were the ones affected this time around, and that the Pixel 6 was also released in 2021, which is when the bug started making news. Whatever the cause of the problem here, I wouldn’t be surprised if it carried over to the Pixel 6 and simply hasn’t been fixed yet.

However, given the seriousness of the problem, it is an issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. I’ve reached out to Google for comment on this issue and will update if I hear back. In the meantime, it’s best to prepare in case the worst happens. If you’re using a Pixel phone, here’s what you can do to contact 911 in an emergency:

First, try making a call to 911

If you have time and the danger isn’t immediate, it’s worth trying to call 911 on your Pixel despite the issues. Even though users reporting issues have increased lately, it’s still not a widespread problem. Your call may still go through without a problem.

You can also text 911

If, however, you are unable to call 911, remember that in some jurisdictions (check this regularly updated list to see if where you live is supported), you can also contact 911 via text message. This is a slower method of asking for help, but it’s still better than nothing. To text 911, open your texting app, list 911 as the recipient, and write a concise message with your problem, your location, and any necessary details, like cross streets, landmarks, a specific hiding place, or if you’re able to talk.

Use a backup phone

While I don’t expect anyone who isn’t constantly reviewing technology to have multiple phones on hand, the safest method to ensure you can call 911 if you use a Pixel is to keep a backup phone that isn’t a Pixel on hand. This could be a landline or another cell phone. Importantly, it could be an old cell phone, even if it’s not actively associated with a phone plan. As long as your phone is capable of connecting to a network, it is legally required to be able to call 911, so if you have an old phone that you upgraded and didn’t trade in, it might be a good idea to keep it charged in case you need it in an emergency.