Iphone 14 | iPhone 14 (Pro): emergency call SOS via satellite now also in Germany | apple iphone

In addition to accident detection, the new emergency services of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro also include satellite communication. At the start of the new iPhone generation, Apple announced the “Emergency SOS via satellite” function for the USA and Canada, and from today it is available in both regions.

Emergency call SOS also for travellers

With the release of the new function, owners of an iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro can now also connect to the emergency call if there is neither cell phone coverage nor WLAN reception. Satellite SOS is not limited to iPhone 14 purchased in the US and Canada, but can also be used by international travelers as long as they are in those areas. For example, anyone who is currently on vacation in the USA and owns an iPhone 14 purchased in Germany can also use the function immediately if they are in need. one Apple support page can also be seen that the feature also works in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands – both territories of the United States. In Guam and American Samoa, however, the function is not offered.

Emergency call via text message

Users are connected directly to emergency operators who are equipped to receive text messages, or to Apple operator operators, which then contact emergency operators who cannot receive text messages on the user’s behalf. The emergency feature can only be used if no connections via the mobile network or WLAN are possible. Apple recommends trying to reach emergency services via 911 first, which might work even if you don’t see a cellular signal. If this attempt fails, the iPhone automatically suggests contact via satellite.

The user then has to click through a few short questions on the iPhone so that the emergency call center can get the most important information in the first message. After answering the questions, the interface will show where to point the iPhone to connect and send the first message. This message contains the answers to the questions, the location including the elevation, the iPhone battery status and the emergency pass if it is activated. The transcript may also be forwarded to the user’s emergency contacts to keep them updated.

Not for iPhones from China, Hong Kong and Macau

However, there are regional restrictions on the devices. Emergency SOS via Satellite is not offered on iPhones purchased in China, Hong Kong or Macau. This also applies if you are with these devices in areas where Apple actually offers the function. The emergency service may also not be available above 62° latitude, for example in northern Canada or parts of Alaska.

Location via satellite also in “Where is?”

Additionally, users who want to update friends or family about their whereabouts while off-line can now open the Find My app and share their location via satellite.

Emergency SOS in December also in Germany

According to Apple, the service, which can be used with the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, will also be available in December of this year in Germany, France, Great Britain and Ireland.

Apple states that the service will be free for two years from the activation of a new iPhone 14 or the availability of the service. It is not yet known which and whether there will be any fees.