by LuxetechApple launches emergency satellite-based SOS service
Apple has introduced its “Emergency SOS” service, which enables iPhones to use satellites to communicate when there is no signal.
The function is designed to enable users to get in touch with emergency services when they are not within range of WiFi or cellular networks. However, since it can send data to the Find My tracking app, users can also utilise it to keep their loved ones informed of their whereabouts when they are off the grid.
When the iPhone 14 lineup, which includes the technology needed to interface with the satellites, was unveiled in September, the new tool was also made available. But until recently, it had not been turned on, The function is designed to enable users to get in touch with emergency services when they are not within range of WiFi or cellular networks. However, since it can send data to the Find My tracking app, users can also utilize it to keep their loved ones informed of their whereabouts.
Owners of the most recent iPhone models in the US and Canada can use the system as of right now. Apple also declared that in December, it will arrive in the UK, France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK.
According to Apple, the service is free for the first two years. It hasn’t stated whether or how much it will charge after that. “Some of the most well-liked destinations are remote and have no cellular service. The iPhone 14 series offers an essential option that can help consumers obtain the assistance they require while off the grid with Emergency SOS via satellite, according to Greg Joswiak, Apple’s marketing chief, in a statement.
“Our teams put in countless hours to overcome a fresh set of technical obstacles in order to launch this service and construct a solid physical infrastructure.
Only the iPhone 14 series offers Emergency SOS via satellite, a ground-breaking feature and fresh innovation that we believe will give our consumers some peace of mind. One of a number of safety and security measures that have recently been added to Apple products but that their users are unlikely to wish to activate is the function in question.
Crash detection, for instance, is a feature of this year’s iPhones and Apple Watches that employs sophisticated sensors to detect when their users are in a car accident and alert emergency authorities.
Apple has stated that it is developing new procedures so that its devices may connect to satellites that are already in orbit in addition to adding satellite capabilities to the iPhone and completing agreements that will allow them to do so that emergency services can efficiently communicate with iPhones. Because connections can be slow, users will be guided through a questionnaire to make sure they fill it out completely and submit it to the emergency services. After completing the questionnaire, users of the system will be guided through the process of finding a satellite, which may involve pointing their phone at the proper location in the sky. Then it will connect and transmit all the data from that questionnaire together with the user’s location, battery life, and medical data.
Apple stated to have included a demo on the iPhone so people could test it out without actually dialing 911.