9to5Mac investigators unearthed some code in the newest iOS 16 developer beta that hints to the presence of a satellite SOS demo mode, maybe so you can familiarise yourself with the function before you get into trouble.
SOS via satellite is a feature exclusive to the iPhone 14 and 14 Pro that Apple unveiled (and demoed) earlier this month. When you’re out of cell range, it utilizes a satellite connection to assist send messages and location information to emergency agencies. It is not yet operational; the functionality is scheduled to be online in November.
Meanwhile, Apple seems to be preparing for its formal unveiling. 9to5Mac discovered “several improvements” connected to satellite connection in iOS 16.1 developer beta 3, but the demo mode jumps out as something we hadn’t heard about previously. This satellite demo seems to be a genuine walkthrough as well, requiring you to step outdoors and locate a clean view of the sky in order to utilize it. According to 9to5Mac, it will be accessible through the settings menu at any moment.
Apple is far from alone in exploring methods to link phones to satellites, but most people are still unfamiliar with the notion. A demo mode might assist iPhone 14 users to get acquainted with the function and how it works — or even persuade them that it is worth paying for. Apple will offer two years of service with the iPhone 14, but it is unknown how much it would cost after that.
