Apple’s iPhone 14 Emergency SOS via Satellite Feature to Launch in Six Additional Countries

Apple announced a new iPhone 14 in yellow, as well as the expansion of the Emergency SOS via satellite capability to six additional nations. The programme, which was first introduced in November for the United States and Canada, has now expanded to include additional countries, including Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

Later this month, it will also arrive in these countries:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Italy
  • Luxembourg
  • The Netherlands
  • Portugal

Emergency SOS via satellite was touted as an exclusive feature for the iPhone 14 series, although it will most likely be expanded to additional iPhone models in the future. With a mix of custom-designed components and closely integrated software, this capability enables users to notify emergency services when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage is unavailable.

Moreover, if users wish to reassure friends and family about their locations when off the grid, they may launch the Find My app and broadcast their whereabouts via satellite.

If a user is unable to access emergency services due to a lack of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, an easy-to-use interface opens on the iPhone to get the user aid through a satellite link. A brief questionnaire appears to assist the user in answering crucial questions with a few easy taps, which are relayed to dispatchers in the first message to guarantee they can immediately comprehend a user’s position and location. Apple collaborated extensively with specialists to analyse typical questions and processes in order to discover the most prevalent causes for summoning emergency services.

After the quiz, the easy interface directs the user on where to position their iPhone to connect and delivers the first message. This message contains the user’s questionnaire replies, location, including altitude, iPhone battery level, and, if enabled, Medical ID. The questionnaire and follow-up messages are delivered immediately through satellite to dispatchers who accept text messages or to relay centres manned by Appletrained personnel who may call for assistance on the user’s behalf. To keep the user’s emergency contacts updated, the transcript may also be shared.

The first two years of this feature are free to use, and Apple says it will reveal how much it will charge to maintain support for this function in the future. The yellow iPhone 14 will be available in retailers on Tuesday.