Satellite-based Emergency SOS feature now accessible on the iPhone 14 series in the United States and Canada as of today
In a significant step towards enhancing user safety, Apple has launched Emergency SOS via Satellite for the iPhone 14 series in the USA and Canada, with plans to expand the service to France, Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom in December.
This innovative feature allows users to connect directly to emergency services even in remote locations, outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. The service works by connecting the iPhone to a satellite through a combination of custom-designed components and deeply integrated software, eliminating the need for a bulky antenna.
In an emergency, users can activate Emergency SOS via satellite, and their location, type of emergency, and a live transcript of their conversation with emergency services will be shared. For iOS 16.1 and iMessage users, emergency contacts can also see these details, providing an added layer of reassurance. Non-iPhone users or those not using iOS 16.1 or iMessage will only see the user's location and type of emergency.
Location information is shared with Apple to reach the relay center or dispatcher closest to the user. The service also includes a built-in demo, allowing users to test satellite connectivity on their iPhone without contacting emergency services, providing them an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the service.
Connection and response times for Emergency SOS via satellite can vary based on location, site conditions, and other factors. However, the service offers a more 360-degree approach to sharing critical information with emergency services, family, and friends.
Another useful feature is the ability for users to share their location via satellite with friends and family while traveling off the grid, providing peace of mind to loved ones.
Apple has also taken steps to ensure user privacy. Users have the option to stop sharing their information with an emergency contact at any time.
For those who purchased an iPhone 14 model before the availability date of Emergency SOS via satellite, a two-year subscription to the service will be provided free of charge, starting from the service availability date.
The service also allows Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) to connect to even more users in emergency situations, offering a lifeline to those in need. With Emergency SOS via satellite, Apple is taking a significant step forward in mobile safety technology.
Access to a satellite connection with Crash Detection and Fall Detection on Apple Watch requires a connected iPhone 14 model running iOS 16.1. The service is included for free for two years starting at the time of activation of a new iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max.
In summary, Emergency SOS via Satellite is a groundbreaking feature that provides users with a vital safety net, especially in remote locations. The service is now available in the US and Canada, and will be available in France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK in December.
