Enhanced features for when safety is at risk: Emergency SOS and satellite connectivity

Apple's "Far Out" event announced that the new iPhone 14 will let users send emergency messages via satellite when they are not in cell phone service or have no reception.

In partnership with Globalstar, the emergency SOS feature on the Apple iPhone 14 will make it possible for users to text emergency services or contacts from the Messages app when other connectivity options are unavailable using Globalstar's satellite network. 

You can text emergency services from your Apple iPhone 14 when you're outside of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage with Emergency SOS via satellite.

Apple's iPhone 14 gets two new safety features. 

‍Crash Detection  

With the iPhone 14, you're going to get a new high-dynamic-range gyroscope and dual-core accelerometer that can detect up to 256gs, just like the Apple Watch Crash Detection. When in a severe car crash, this lets the hardware contact the software to call and notify emergency services and emergency contacts. Both the Apple Watch and the iPhone work together to help you out. 

“Emergencies don’t always happen when it’s convenient. 

When you need help, you need it wherever you are!”Ashley Williams, Manager, Satellite Modelling and Simulation

Weather Conditions

"The need to be found" often transcends storm conditions. Even if you don't have cell service or Wi-Fi, there is still a need to be connected even in the weakest of conditions. 

As part of the latest iPhone 14 Series release and with new features/hardware upgrades, the Apple iPhone 14 is able to offer assistance when you are off the grid. 

Emergency SOS via Satellite

“While the iPhone is designed for a best-in-class cellular experience, connecting to a satellite presents an entirely new set of challenges.” Ashley Williams, Manager, Satellite Modelling and Simulation.

Now, let's take a closer look. Smartphones connect to cell towers located a few miles away. Range varies depending on your network provider. For years, carriers have built more and more cell towers in an effort to strengthen and speed up their network.

Realistically and practically speaking, there could be windy back roads, winding road blocks, or mountain ridges that are outside the cell tower network, correct? These are areas that are not reachable for cell towers. 

“Connectivity in these areas can be provided by communication satellites. Unlike stationary cell towers, communications satellites are hundreds of miles above the Earth, flying upto 1500 miles per hour” Ashley Williams, Manager, Satellite Modelling and Simulation.

Usually you'll need a clear view of the sky or enough battery to send a text message, so it's a challenge to connect to these satellites. 

"Typically through testing and research, the only way to tap into such a network is with an expensive device that uses a bulky external antenna. We knew that experience would not work for an iPhone." Ashley Williams, Manager, Satellite Modelling and Simulation

‍Satellite Connectivity on the Apple iPhone 14

Apple builds hardware and software components that allow the iPhone 14 antennas to connect with satellites' unique frequencies, which are only possible when the phone is directly pointed at a satellite. 

As satellites are too bright to see with the naked eye, Apple features a unique user experience that shows you where you should point your iPhone. The iPhone will establish a connection with the satellite, and the connection will stay in place as the satellite moves.

Standard messaging protocols were not designed for a satellite's limited bandwidth. A user needs enough information to receive emergency help once they are connected. 

‍Emergency SOS service for two years free?

While Apple hasn't disclosed all the details of its Emergency SOS plan, it appears that anyone who purchases an iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max will receive two free years of service. In Apple's press releases, it is unclear how long the offer of two free years of service will last, but as of now, all iPhone 14 owners will receive two free years of Emergency SOS services upon purchase.