Testing Apple's New Emergency SOS via Satellite Feature

We thought we'd take a look at it to see how it works.

Emergency SOS via satellite is designed to allow users to connect to emergency services when there is no cellular or internet connection available.

It's only available when you don't have a connection and can't make a phone call or send a text, but Apple has a built-in demo feature so that users can get used to it.

There's a "Try demo" option in the Satellite section of Emergency SOS.

If you're lost, have been in an accident, or are injured, you'll be asked a series of questions by Emergency SOS via satellite. Your medical ID and location are sent to the local emergency services.

If the local emergency services location accepts texts, the information is sent directly, and if not, it goes through a relay center with Apple trained operators.

Emergency responders can text back and forth with you in order to get the information they need for a rescue. If you're in a car accident, rescuers might want to know more about your location, your phone battery level, and if you're in danger from a gas or fluid leak.

The best connection is made possible by the clear view of the sky. If you have a clear view, reduced size text messages can be sent in just 15 seconds.

You'll see directions to turn left or right to connect to the satellite, and you'll be notified when you have a poor connection, as well as steps you can take to improve it.

It can take several minutes for a text to be sent back and forth if there isn't a strong connection, but the iPhone aims to direct you to an ideal location for communication. Texting friends and family is not possible with Emergency SOS via satellite.

If you call for help via satellite, the feature can alert your emergency contacts, and it can also be used to update your location. You can update your location through the "My location via satellite" feature in the Find My app when there is no connection.

Emergency SOS via satellite is available on all of the iPhone 14 models. You don't need a software update to use the feature if you're running an older version of the software. France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK will be the first countries to receive Emergency SOS via satellite in December.

Apple has said that it will be free for all iPhone 14 owners to use Emergency SOS for two years. When that two-year period ends, there is no word on what it will cost.