How to Use Emergency SOS Via Satellite on iPhone 14

With the launch of the new iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro series, there are new features related to eSIM and photography, as well as emergency SOS via satellite communication. The service works even if you are in remote areas without a wireless data signal, allowing you to signal for help wherever you are.

Nevertheless, using Emergency SOS requires an Apple Watch or a nearby iPhone with a cellular or WiFi connection. Sometimes you have to choose the emergency service you need in some countries and regions.

However, although this feature is pretty awesome, some users still don’t know how to use Emergency SOS Via Satellite on iPhone 14. That’s why we are here with this guide. In this guide, we have explained everything about the emergency SOS via Satellite on iPhone 14 series. So, let’s get started with the guide.

What is Emergency SOS via Satellite?

New safety measures were added to the iPhone 14 lineup, including emergency SOS via satellite. This device allows you to contact emergency services in situations where you don’t have access to reception.

Using this feature, you can text emergency services when you are away from cellular or WiFi connectivity. There is no ability to place calls or do anything else with this service; it is only for emergencies. However, a copy of all messages will be forwarded to the appropriate emergency agencies.

How Does iPhone 14 Emergency SOS via Satellite Work?

If you need to contact emergency services, emergency SOS via satellite can help you reach them no matter what other options you have. When you can’t call or text emergency services due to a problem with cellular or WiFi connectivity, your iPhone tries to connect you through satellite to the help you need.

In comparison to sending and receiving messages over a cellular network, using a satellite link can be a very different experience. The time it takes to send a message might be 15 seconds in ideal circumstances when there is no foliage and a clear view of the sky. 

When you dial an emergency number, your phone connects you to the emergency service via cellular data or WiFi. It is virtually impossible to contact an emergency service if you are in a remote area. That’s no longer the case.

Using the iPhone 14, you can connect with a satellite, and the emergency service will receive your message through that satellite. In a partnership with Globalstar, Apple will receive satellite services from the satellite operator.

Where is the Emergency SOS via Satellite Service Available?

If you receive more messages, you may be prompted to reply. However, only Latin characters, such as English and French, are supported in these messages. Unfortunately, this service is currently only available in the United States and Canada.

Whether you bought your iPhone in the USA or Canada, you could still utilize this service if you bought it outside China, Hong Kong, or Macao.

There is no satellite emergency SOS available in Guam and American Samoa. Basically, those in northern regions of Canada and Alaska where latitudes exceed 62° may not have access to emergency SOS by satellite.

How to Use Emergency SOS via Satellite

While you’re calling emergency services, tap Emergency text via satellite in the dialer if you’re in a no-network zone. Once that’s done, click on Report Emergency. In this section, you will be asked some emergency questions. 

Choosing this option will notify your emergency contacts that you have contacted emergency services after you have answered the questions. Moreover, instructions on connecting to the satellite will be sent to your iPhone after filling out the questionnaire on your iPhone.

In order to use Emergency SOS via Satellite, you must first be in an area without cellular or WiFi connectivity. You will not be able to use this service if you do not receive even the most minimal network signal.

Your phone must be held in your hand while you follow the instructions on the screen to connect to a satellite. When you move in a certain direction to connect to satellites, your phone will tell you which direction to move in. The iPhone’s directions will provide you with directions since you cannot see satellites with your naked eye. 

Meanwhile, choosing a spot with a clear sky, without any clouds in the way, is important. It is okay to have light foliage, but if you are covered by heavy foliage, you won’t be able to connect. 

It is also possible to have problems connecting to the Internet due to hills, mountains, canyons, and tall structures. Your iPhone will keep prompting you to adjust your position as the satellite moves, so you must also adjust your positions. 

Emergency responders will receive your medical ID, emergency contact information, emergency questionnaire answers, and location once a connection is established. After 15 seconds, satellite messages can be sent when the sky gets clear.

How Does Satellite Communication Work?

It is a new technology for smartphones to be able to communicate via satellite. There have been several announcements of satellite-based connectivity beyond the reach of terrestrial cell towers, such as Huawei in China, but Apple is among the first to announce a service so far.

The phone uses radio waves to connect, likely using bands already in use by terrestrial networks. You can use satellites, but the bandwidth is much narrower because you’re connecting through a satellite.

This information will be transmitted to a satellite, relayed back to a ground station, and then forwarded to a destination, in this case, an emergency response agency. It usually takes between 15 seconds and a minute for the data to reach its destination.

You can’t send it in a quick burst because of bandwidth limitations. Nevertheless, Apple’s Find My network allows people to track their location via satellite when they’re out in nature so that they can keep in touch with loved ones.

What Countries Will Users Be Able to Use Emergency SOS via Satellite?

It is currently only accessible in the USA and Canada. As long as you didn’t purchase the iPhone service from China, Hong Kong, or Macao, you can still use it on your iPhone if you’re an international traveler in the USA and Canada.

Final Words

So, that’s how to use Emergency SOS Via Satellite on iPhone 14. We are just hoping that now you know everything about the Emergency SOS Via Satellite on iPhone 14. But, suppose in case you have any doubts or queries on your mind, comment below and let us know. 

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