Apple debuted its Emergency SOS via Satellite with the iPhone 14 series, with the feature first rolling out to the U.S. and Canada and, shortly after, other European countries such as the U.K., Germany, France, and Ireland. While Apple continues its satellite expansion, the company announced today that it is providing a whole year of free service for those who upgraded to the iPhone 14.
Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite is now available in 16 countries and is also compatible with the iPhone 15
The technology giant has stated through a press release that it is extending its free satellite coverage for a whole year for iPhone 14 users while also mentioning that the feature has saved countless lives from a grim fate.
“One year ago today, Apple’s groundbreaking safety service Emergency SOS via satellite became available on all iPhone 14 models in the U.S. and Canada. Now also available on the iPhone 15 lineup in 16 countries and regions, this innovative technology — which enables users to text with emergency services while outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage — has already made a significant impact, contributing to many lives being saved. Apple today announced it is extending free access to Emergency SOS via satellite for an additional year for existing iPhone 14 users.”
However, as you might have guessed, there is a condition involved; iPhone 14 owners who activated their device in a country that supports Emergency SOS via Satellite prior to the 12AM PT on November 15, 2023, will be eligible to use the service for 12 additional months. Apple has also provided clear instructions on how to use the feature in case they ever require assistance. Reliable communication with a satellite in range requires having your iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 under an open sky, and objects such as trees, buildings, foliage, or any other obstruction will prevent messages from being sent or received quickly.
Under ideal conditions, iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 owners can expect messages to be sent and received within a 15-second interval, in which they are also asked for minor details such as their location, altitude, iPhone battery level, and others to make it much easier to triangulate the device’s position accurately. There have been several instances where Emergency SOS via Satellite saved lives, such as when it prompted authorities to rescue a man whose car had fallen 400 feet in a canyon. The feature has also saved a family of five from wildfires that spread across Maui, Hawaii, highlighting its usefulness under various circumstances.
News Source: Apple