Apple has expanded the availability of its Emergency SOS via satellite feature to Andorra and Iceland, allowing iPhone users in both countries to contact emergency services even when they are outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.
According to an updated Apple support document, the feature is now available on iPhone 14 and later models, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 3, provided users are running iOS 26.4 or watchOS 26.4 or later.
Emergency SOS via satellite is designed for situations where users are completely off the grid. If an emergency call cannot be completed over a cellular or Wi-Fi connection, the iPhone can establish a satellite connection, enabling users to exchange text messages with emergency responders. During the conversation, the iPhone can automatically share important information, including the user’s location, elevation, Medical ID details, emergency contacts, and remaining battery life.
To use the feature, users must be outdoors with a clear view of the sky and horizon so their device can connect to a satellite. Apple also offers a built-in Satellite Connection Demo, allowing users to familiarise themselves with the process before heading into remote areas.
The feature remains available free of charge for two years following the activation of a new iPhone 14 or later. It also integrates with Crash Detection and Fall Detection, allowing compatible iPhones to automatically contact emergency services via satellite if a severe crash or hard fall is detected and the user is unresponsive while outside cellular coverage.
With the addition of Andorra and Iceland, Emergency SOS via satellite is now supported in 20 countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Andorra, and Iceland.
Apple says it is continuing to work with governments and regulatory authorities to expand satellite connectivity to additional countries and regions in the future.