With the release of iOS 16.1, Apple just pushed out an Emergency SOS via Satellite. When customers don’t have access to WiFi or cellular networks, the capability lets them use satellite communication to reach emergency services. It should be noted that the function is restricted to iPhone 14 models. For a man who was stuck in Alaska’s snow-capped mountains, the satellite communication capability served as a savior.
In-depth details about the Apple iPhone 14 satellite emergency SOS feature via satellite saves life of man stranded in Alaska:
According to MacRumours, the Alaska State Troopers were notified that a man riding a snowmobile between Noorvik and Kotzebue was stranded. The man was stranded in a chilly, inaccessible place without internet. Additionally, he was unable to place calls. Then, he put the recently introduced Emergency SOS via satellite capability to use. He turned on the function on his iPhone 14 to alert the local law enforcement that he was trapped.
The rescue crews were sent to the location supplied by Apple as soon as the authorities received a warning that the man was stuck. Even though he was in such a terrible condition, the man was quickly saved and managed to escape unharmed. The accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided in the initial alarm “impressed” the rescuers.
It was stranded in a distant location that is just outside the range of satellite connectivity. The northern regions of Canada and Alaska, as well as Noorvik and Kotzebue, are near 69 degrees latitude, however, according to Apple, satellite communication may not function well in locations over 62 degrees latitude.
The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models are the only ones that support emergency SOS via satellite. When you are outside of cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, you can utilize the capability to text emergency services.
The experience of using a satellite link is distinct from sending or receiving a message over a cellular network. A message might take 15 seconds to send in ideal circumstances with a clear view of the sky and horizon, and more than a minute to send under trees with light to medium vegetation. You might not be able to connect to a satellite if you’re in close proximity to other barriers or are under dense vegetation. The length of your message, the environment you’re in, and the condition and accessibility of the satellite network can all affect connection times, according to an Apple blog post.
Notably, when activating an iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro, Emergency SOS via satellite is free for two years. Currently only available in North America, the function will soon be made available in France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK as well.
