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An iPhone feature called SOS by satellite, available on the iPhone 14 running iOS 16.1 or later, has proven to be a life-saving tool. Unlike other methods of contacting emergency services, such as tapping the “Emergency” button on a locked phone or pressing the side buttons, which only work when cellular towers or WiFi are available, SOS by satellite allows users to reach out for help even in areas with no cell towers or when all towers are down.

To set up SOS by satellite, navigate to the Emergency SOS settings at the bottom of the phone’s settings page. Although it is not necessary to turn it on, there are a few important steps to follow. If a 911 call does not connect, the iPhone 14 will automatically initiate a satellite connection to reach emergency services.

To test this feature, make sure you have a clear view of the sky as the phone connects to a satellite up to hundreds of miles away. The phone will prompt you to give compass permissions for accurate location-sharing. If the compass app is not installed on your phone, you can download Apple’s version from the app store. Ensure that location services permissions are granted to the compass app.

Once a satellite connection is established, the phone will send text messages with information on the incident and the approximate location. If there are injuries, the messages will provide instructions on how to administer basic first aid until help arrives. Additionally, the emergency service automatically sends text messages to your designated emergency contacts, alerting them that you have called for help. If you have enabled location sharing with your emergency contacts through Apple’s Find My app, they will also receive your location information.

To add emergency contacts, open the health app, go to settings, and select medical ID. Enter the relevant contact information, as well as any medical conditions or medications. This will help responders gather essential information promptly in case you are unable to communicate.

It is important to note that this feature only works on iPhone 14 and future models, as well as iOS 16 and future updates. Make sure to set up your emergency contacts in the settings to ensure quick access to help by notifying your friends and family with a simple tap on the screen.

Please keep in mind that during the demo, it may take between 15 seconds and a minute for the messages to go through due to the satellite communication’s distance from Earth.

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