Pretty much on the expected line, Apple has rolled out “Emergency SOS via Satellite” in the US and Canada for iPhone 14 users. According to reports, the feature is all set to be launched in the UK, France, Germany, and Ireland in December 2022. Follow along to learn how to demo or use the Emergency SOS via Satellite on iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max.
Demo or Use the Emergency SOS via Satellite Service on iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max
Thanks to a combination of custom-designed components and software, iPhone 14 models can directly connect to a satellite, thereby allowing users to send text messages to emergency services whenever they are off the grid (outside the range of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage).
For the best performance, you should use the satellite feature in open spaces with a clear line of sight to the sky. Keep in mind that the overall performance could be impacted by nearby buildings and trees. That all being said, follow along to access the feature in an emergency when you are outside the range of cellular and Wi-Fi and the SOS symbol is present in the top corner of your supported iPhone model.
Emergency SOS via Satellite Availability and Requirements
- To be able to use Emergency SOS via satellite, you must have iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, or 14 Pro Max.
- Your iPhone must be running iOS 16.1 or later.
- The feature requires you to be in a place with no cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.
- As already stated above, the Emergency SOS via satellite is currently available only in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Canada.
- International travelers who visit the U.S. and Canada are allowed to use the Emergency SOS via satellite. The only condition is that they must not have bought their phone in China mainland, Hong Kong, or Macao.
- Emergency SOS via satellite has not been launched in Guam or American Samoa.
- You should know that Satellite connection might not work in places (i.e northern parts of Canada, and Alaska) with above 62° latitude.
- Bear in mind that the Emergency SOS via satellite isn’t available on iPhone models purchased in China mainland, Hong Kong, or Macao.
Use Emergency SOS via Satellite Service on iPhone 14
Step 1. To get started, open the Phone app on your iPhone 14 running iOS 16.1 or later.
Step 2. Now, dial the emergency services such as 911 (US).
Step 3. As soon as the call fails, hit the green Emergency Text via Satellite button. Then, go ahead with the instructions to communicate your emergency.
Do note that you are not allowed to make phone calls using the SOS via the Satellite feature. However, you do get the option to send short text messages. To speed up the whole process, iOS will quickly show all the important questions to assess your situation. After that, it will send that information to emergency personnel.
It’s also important to point out that if you are in a place where emergency services can receive text messages, your iPhone will directly send the text message. Else, it will go to a relay center with Apple-trained specialists who will dial an emergency call on your behalf.
Once again, I would like to reiterate that the satellite feature requires your iPhone to connect to a satellite in the sky. It’s done to help the iPhone walk you through an ideal spot from where you can point the device to easily get connected to the nearest satellite.
Demo Emergency Services Via Satellite on iPhone 14
In order to provide a better idea about how the satellite feature works in a genuine emergency, Apple has come up with a neat “Demo Mode”. You can take advantage of this demo mode to have a clear understanding of the feature and its interface without actually needing to contact emergency services.
Step 1. First off, launch the Settings app on your iPhone 14 running iOS 16.1 or later.
Step 2. Now, scroll down and tap on Emergency SOS.
Step 3. Under “Emergency SOS Via Satellite,” hit Try Demo. Then, go through the onscreen instructions.
Wrapping up…
That’s pretty much it! So, that’s how you can set up and use the Emergency SOS via Satellite service on your iPhone 14. Keep in mind that the Emergency SOS via Satellite will be free for the first two years. After that, Apple may charge for the service. If you have any related questions, make sure to shoot ’em via the comments section below.
Read more: How to Share Your Location via Satellite With Find My
