- How emergency SOS via satellite can keep you safe in remote areas
Athira Sethu
Kochi, 18 October 2024
Have you ever been miles away from an emergency response team, such as when hiking up a mountain or camping in the woods? In such cases, an emergency can be quite overwhelming because your smartphone might not reach a signal in the network area. Fortunately, there is a feature that has lately been made available on most smartphones today, referred to as Emergency SOS via satellite, which will help you in case you are in a critical situation.
The technology is especially important in disaster situations or very remote areas where cell service doesn’t exist. Too many people aren’t aware of this life-saving feature, but understanding how it works can prepare you for emergencies that might arise in the wild or during a crisis.
What is Emergency SOS via Satellite?
Both Apple and Google have created Emergency SOS via satellite. This will provide an opportunity to send emergency messages when there is no cell service or Wi-Fi.
- Apple’s SOS Feature
Apple first introduced this feature on its iPhone 14 series in 2022. This technology allows a user to send texts to emergency services or contacts using a satellite when the user is not connected to a cellular network. You would need your iPhone to run at least iOS 18 to access this feature.
- Google SOS feature
Google had also developed a feature in its Pixel 9 series. It allows its users to send SOS messages, particularly during emergencies. Both technologies use satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites help your device relay messages to emergency services or to anyone on your contact list whom you want to reach.
How Does It Work in Emergencies?
When natural catastrophes such as hurricanes, wildfires, or earthquakes occur, it is in some situations impossible to maintain regular communication. This therefore makes having the satellite SOS feature a huge plus in such situations.
For example, when the hurricane got too bad in Asheville, most people there lost cell service. That is when their iPhone or Pixel device became useful as it started sending SOS messages to rescue teams via satellite.
Therefore, if you do go hiking or camping into the wilderness and things start getting a little disturbing for whatever reason, having a satellite messenger will give you a much greater chance of being rescued. It is certainly no fashion accessory or plaything; it may well be a lifesaver.
How to Use This Feature
For Apple iPhone Users
If you have an iPhone and find yourself in an emergency, here’s how to use the feature:
- Try Calling: First, try to call one of your contacts.
- Use Emergency Text: If the call fails, tap on “Emergency Text via Satellite” to send your message.
- Using Messages App: You can also go to the Messages app. Type “SOS” and select “Report Emergency.” Follow the instructions to provide details about your location and battery life.
For Google Pixel Users
For those with a Google Pixel phone, here’s how to send a satellite SOS message:
- Open Google Messages: Look for the Satellite SOS option.
- Fill Out the Questionnaire: You will need to answer a few questions about your emergency.
- Position Your Phone: Point your phone toward the sky to connect with the satellite. Make sure you are outdoors or near a window for the best chance of success.
Why Don’t More People Know About This?
While it is a very important feature, most smartphone users do not know that they can send messages or share their location in case of emergencies. People usually find that while keeping up with fast technology, they miss learning about such crucial safety features.
Companies like Google and Apple spend a lot of time promoting the latest gizmos and apps, so that really good features like SOS satellites are overlooked. It would be a much-needed thing if these companies did more to promote these life-saving features so that the customers were made to understand that it could come as a lifesaver in some way.
The Emergency SOS via satellite feature in iPhones and Android devices is a very important tool that needs more attention. If we can spread the word about such an important capability, it will better prepare more people in case of emergencies.
Take some time now to learn what your device can do. Familiarization with this technology can make a big difference when you need help. Being informed and prepared may keep you safe in tough situations. Stay safe and be ready for anything!
