Apple has expanded the availability of its Emergency SOS via satellite feature to users in Japan with the release of iOS 17.6.
With Emergency SOS via satellite, iPhone front-loads vital questions to assess the user’s situation and shows them where to point their phone to connect to a satellite. The initial questionnaire and follow-up messages are then relayed to centers staffed by Apple‑trained specialists who can call for help on the user’s behalf.
Every model in the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 lineup supports Emergency SOS via satellite in supported countries and regions. Devices connect directly to a satellite and calls the emergency services if a user is in need of help, even if they are unable to dial 911. With Emergency SOS via satellite, if a user is not able to reach emergency services because no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage is available, an easy-to-use interface appears on iPhone to get the user help via satellite connection.
As noted by Filipe Espósito of 9to5Mac, in addition to Japan, Emergency SOS via satellite is available in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
