Apple recently announced that the Emergency SOS via satellite service is officially available to iPhone 14 users in US and Canada. The feature is automatically enabled on all iPhone 14 models running iOS 16.1. The Cupertino tech giant teased the Emergency SOS via satellite feature during its Far Out event where it launched iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, and Apple Watch Series 8. Unarguably, the Pro models grabbed all the eyeballs because of the much-awaited Always-On-Display, the all-new Dynamic Island, the much-capable 48MP main camera, the advanced A16 Bionic chip, and other niceties.
While the standard iPhone 14 models feature the same A15 chipset and some more specs as its predecessors, they support new safety technologies to help users when they’re all alone in a strange place. So, if you’ve got iPhone 14 model, this feature assures help even if you’re stuck in a dead zone where there’s no cellular or Wi-Fi available.
Excited to know how to use Emergency SOS via satellite service? Here’s what you need to know.
What is Emergency SOS via satellite on iPhone 14 lineup?
Emergency SOS via Satellite is an impressive safety feature of the iPhone 14 series that allows users to seek help even if they are unable to dial emergency services in no-coverage areas. The feature is triggered automatically by calling 911 when SOS is shown on the top of the iPhone screen. It lets your iPhone connect directly to a satellite and request help even when you’re completely outside
Wi-Fi or Cellular coverage. The best part is, you don’t have to mess and stress around on how to establish a connection with the satellite. You just need to go through a simple questionnaire and the intuitive interface will guide you on where to point the iPhone to connect to a satellite and sends an initial message.
Once the connection is established, the messages are relayed directly via satellite to a local dispatcher if they accept text messages. Otherwise, they are transferred to the relay centers staffed by Apple-trained emergency specialists who can seek help on the user’s behalf.
What is Find My App via satellite service?
In addition to Emergency SOS via satellite, Apple offers a Find My App via satellite service for users who’re traveling off the grid without any Wi-Fi or cellular network coverage. You can open the Find My App and share your current location via satellite. This will reassure your family and friends about your whereabouts. To share your current location via satellite, head to Find My App, open the “Me” tab, swipe up to see My Location via satellite, and finally tap the Send My Location option.
Where’s the Emergency SOS via satellite feature on my iPhone?
To check the Emergency SOS via satellite feature on your iPhone 14 or 14 Pro models, open Settings then scroll down to find & tap Emergency SOS. Then, scroll down to the bottom of the screen. If your iPhone has this feature, you’ll see a new section detailing satellite connectivity on your iPhone. There’s also a demo mode to familiarize users with this service. You can connect your iPhone to a real satellite in range and test satellite connectivity without calling emergency services. You’ll get to feel the whole process so you can easily use it in case of an emergency.
Do you need to pay to use Emergency SOS via satellite on your iPhone 14?
For two years, Apple is offering free access to Emergency SOS via satellite and Find My App via satellite for iPhone 14 users. The two-year trial period starts as soon as the user activates his iPhone. After that, users have to pay a subscription fee to use these satellite features. Right now, Apple did not mention anything about the subscription plans or pricing. It’s worth mentioning that to use Emergency SOS via satellite and Find My App via satellite services, your iPhone 14 must run iOS 16.1 or newer versions.
Does iPhone Emergency SOS vis satellite work in other countries?
Emergency SOS via satellite is currently available in US and Canada. Also, Apple is all set to launch these services in the UK, Ireland, France, and Germany in December 2022. As for the other countries, Apple did not mention any timeline.
