Apple has expanded Emergency SOS via satellite to Norway, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to contact emergency services when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage is unavailable.
Apple’s support documentation now lists Norway among the countries where Emergency SOS via satellite is available.
In Norway, the feature requires an iPhone 14 or newer running iOS 26.4 or later, or an Apple Watch Ultra 3 or newer running watchOS 26.4 or later.
Emergency SOS via satellite is designed for situations where a user needs emergency assistance but is outside the reach of conventional cellular and Wi-Fi networks.
When no normal connection is available, a compatible iPhone can guide the user through pointing the device toward a satellite before sending important information to emergency services.
Apple asks users a series of questions about the emergency and can transmit details including their Medical ID and emergency contact information, location, elevation, remaining iPhone battery level and responses to the emergency questionnaire.
The information can then be shared with emergency responders to help them understand the situation before assistance arrives.
Apple notes an important limitation for users in Norway: satellite connectivity may not work in places above 62° latitude.
That caveat is particularly relevant because a significant part of Norway extends north of 62°, including areas popular with hikers and travelers where conventional mobile coverage may be limited.
Apple also warns that mountains, canyons, dense foliage and other obstructions can interfere with the satellite connection.
Emergency SOS via satellite first launched with the iPhone 14 lineup in the United States and Canada in 2022 before gradually expanding internationally.
The technology has since become part of a broader collection of satellite features on the iPhone, allowing supported devices to communicate in situations where cellular and Wi-Fi networks aren’t available.
Apple recommends that users familiarize themselves with the feature before they actually need it. A built-in demo allows compatible iPhone owners to practice connecting to a satellite without contacting emergency services.
The demo can be accessed through Settings on a compatible iPhone and is designed to show users how to position their device and establish a satellite connection.
Emergency SOS via satellite is intended for genuine emergencies when no other connection is available and shouldn’t replace calling emergency services normally when cellular or Wi-Fi coverage is available.