With the iPhone 14, Apple is introducing a new emergency feature. Read to know all about SOS service via satellite service.
New iPhone 14 and its features
On Wednesday, Apple launched iPhone 14 at prices similar to the recent models. Apple debuted Pro and Pro Max versions featuring their first-ever 48MP camera, Always-On display, and crash detection. Additionally, Apple also introduced Emergency SOS via satellite service. The new feature has made several people curious. “Well, I think the biggest news for me was the release of the satellite service for iPhone 14. There have been rumors about this honestly for about a year and a half. And it wasn’t clear whether they were going to actually do it,” stated Bob O’Donnell. O’Donnell is a tech analysis researcher.
“But from that opening video where they showed the satellite in the sky, I was like, okay, I’m pretty sure it’s going to come today. And sure enough, it did. It’s not something that everybody needs,” he stated. “But I think it’s a thing that everybody would like to have because you never know when you’re going to get caught in a particular situation and knowing that you have that safety net to potentially get in contact with someone if you are god forbid stuck, it’s a big deal,” added Bob.
What is the satellite SOS feature?
According to Apple, the satellite SOS feature works with emergency responders. Additionally, users in some situations can use the FindMy app for sharing their location via satellite. Satellite connectivity can be accessed when the user is out of cellular or WiFi signal. Apple is using Globalstar as its satellite SOS service partner. It added that the service is designed for use in open spaces with clear skies. Hence, the performance of this feature may vary if there are buildings or trees in the vicinity.
To use this feature, users have to point their iPhones at the exact location of a satellite passing by. Apple stated the service is free for two years for iPhone 14 users. “This breakthrough technology also allows users to manually share their location over satellite with Find My when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi connection, providing a sense of security when hiking or camping off the grid,” stated the firm.