It’s been a yr since Apple launched “Emergency SOS via satellite” on the iPhone—and stories recommend that the characteristic is already saving lives.

For instance, after a automobile with two passengers went off the street in Los Angeles, an iPhone 14 within the automobile registered the accident (through the Crash Detection characteristic that was additionally launched with the 2022 fashions) and contacted emergency providers robotically over a satellite tv for pc connection, as there was no Wi-Fi or cell knowledge obtainable.

Apple says it is meant for “exceptional circumstances when no other means of reaching the emergency services are available.” When you are in hassle and you may’t get a Wi-Fi sign or a lock on a cell tower, your iPhone 14 will make contact with a satellite tv for pc and ship out your plea for assist that approach.

Be warned, although, this is not a backup web connection for private use. The satellite tv for pc connection is sluggish and restricted, and it is actually solely appropriate for transmitting key details about your state of affairs: the place you might be, what situation you are in, and what you need assistance with.

Unfortunately, you do want a current model of Apple’s smartphone, the iPhone 14 or 15, to make use of Emergency SOS through satellite tv for pc. While the corporate has not revealed long-term pricing for the essential characteristic, it’s free for 2 years whenever you activate a appropriate gadget. Apple just lately introduced that it’s giving iPhone 14 homeowners who beforehand activated the characteristic another year of free access.

How Emergency SOS through Satellite Works

Emergency SOS through satellite tv for pc turns into obtainable solely whenever you’re in an space with none Wi-Fi or mobile protection—in any other case it is anticipated you can get in contact with emergency providers or your trusted contacts within the regular approach. Ideally, you want a transparent view of the sky and the horizon, as obstructions like foliage and mountains can sluggish and even block your satellite tv for pc connection.