Apple iPhone14: What is Emergency SOS via Satellite Feature? Here's how messages can be sent without WiFi or mobile coverage

iPhone14, iPhone features: Apple in its new lineup — iPhone 14 has introduced critical safety capabilities such as Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite, a feature that has been introduced for the first time in Apple products. Notably, the Emergency SOS via satellite feature allows user to send an SOS message even in the absence of cellular reception and WiFi.

How does iPhone Emergency SOS via Satellite work?

The iPhone 14 lineup also has Emergency SOS via satellite feature. Emergency SOS via satellite combines custom components deeply integrated with software to allow antennas to connect directly to a satellite, enabling messaging with emergency services when outside of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.

Emergency SOS via satellite, iPhone front-loads a few vital questions to assess the user’s situation and shows them where to point their phone to connect to a satellite-- since satellites are moving targets with low bandwidth, it can take time.

The initial questionnaire and follow-up messages are then relayed to centers staffed by Apple‑trained specialists who can call for help on the user’s behalf.

This technology also allows users to manually share their location over satellite with Find My when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi connection.

Emergency SOS via satellite will be available to users in the US and Canada in November, and the service will be free for two years.

How does iPhone Crash Detection work?

Crash Detection on iPhone can now detect a severe car crash and automatically dial emergency services when a user is unconscious or unable to reach their iPhone.

The iPhone 14 does this with the help of a new dual-core accelerometer, which is capable of detecting G-force measurements of up to 256Gs, and a new high dynamic range gyroscope.

These capabilities build on existing components, like the barometer, which can now detect cabin pressure changes, the GPS for additional input for speed changes, and the microphone, which can recognize loud noises typified by severe car crashes, the company's official website read.

Advanced Apple-designed motion algorithms trained with real-world driving and crash record data provide better accuracy.

When combined with Apple Watch, Crash Detection seamlessly leverages the unique strength of both devices to get users to help efficiently.

When a severe crash is detected, the emergency services call interface will appear on Apple Watch, as it is most likely to be in closer proximity to the user, while the call is placed through iPhone if it is in range for the best possible connection, the company's official website read.