The iOS 17.6 update enables iPhone 14 and 15 users in Japan to utilize the satellite-based Emergency SOS feature.
Users can connect via satellite to request emergency assistance and share their location, even in areas without cellular service. This service is free for two years.
Apple has developed specialized hardware and software for satellite connectivity, enabling fast message delivery.
Apple released iOS 17.6 for iPhone on July 30th. This update enables satellite-based Emergency SOS for iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users in Japan. It can be used even in areas where cellular or Wi-Fi signals are unavailable. Similarly, if you need to share your location with friends or family in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi signals, you can open the Find My app to share your location via satellite. This service is available for free for two years from the activation date of the new iPhone 14 and iPhone 15. The applicable models are as follows:
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
The satellite-based Emergency SOS feature utilizes existing functionalities like Emergency SOS, Medical ID, Emergency Contacts, and Find My location sharing, extending them to connect with satellites for emergency services and sharing with family and friends. Users can connect with Apple's satellite relay center, staffed by trained emergency response specialists, who can contact emergency services on the user's behalf and help them get the assistance they need. When initiating an Emergency SOS call in an area without cellular or Wi-Fi signals, an interface will appear on the iPhone, prompting users to utilize the satellite connection. Users can respond to concise questions with just a few taps. After these questions, the iPhone will guide the user towards the direction in the sky they need to point their device towards to connect to the satellite and send the first message. The transmitted message includes location information, including altitude, the iPhone's battery level, and Medical ID (if available). Given the speed, low bandwidth, and distance of over 1,000km from Earth of the satellite, the iPhone has been designed and equipped with custom-built components and software for connectivity. Apple has also developed a text compression algorithm that reduces the message size by an average of one-third, maximizing speed. This enables messaging in as little as 15 seconds under clear sky conditions.