Apple announced on Monday that iOS 12 will include a new life-saving feature that will share a users location with emergency services when calling 911, giving operators the ability to view an iPhone users precise location “securely and automatically” by using technology from RapidSOS’s Internet Protocol-based data pipeline.
Launching with iOS 12 later in the year, iPhone users in the United States will have RapidSOS’s precise location and rich data mapping software built into their device, integrating with the existing systems currently used by call-takers, dispatchers and first responders across the country to offer “next generation 911 technology” 50 years after the service launched.
By default Apple’s HELO (Hybridized Emergency Location) data sharing feature will be turned on, however; for whatever reason users can choose to disable the feature within the settings app of their iPhone running iOS 12.
In a statement published to Apple.com on Monday, Tim Cook said…
Communities rely on 911 centers in an emergency, and we believe they should have the best available technology at their disposal. When every moment counts, these tools will help first responders reach our customers when they most need assistance.
In keeping with Apple’s focus on privacy, user data cannot be used for any non-emergency purpose and only the responding 911 center will have access to the user’s location during an emergency call.