Since its launch in late 2022, the iPhone 14 has been making waves with its Emergency SOS satellite texting feature. Apple proudly highlights its success in saving individuals from perilous situations outside the reach of traditional cell signals. Originally, Apple offered two years of free service for this feature. However, in a recent announcement, the tech giant revealed that current iPhone 14 owners would receive an additional year of Emergency SOS without any charges.
iPhone 14 and Emergency SOS Feature
Emergency SOS utilizes GlobalStar’s satellite network, allowing iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 owners in 16 countries to access emergency services in remote areas where mobile networks don’t reach. Despite other major carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T expressing intentions to use satellite networks for expanded connectivity, none have progressed beyond technical demonstrations. Qualcomm’s attempt to connect Snapdragon-powered phones to Iridium’s satellite network also recently came to a halt.
Apple’s Pioneering Role in Satellite Emergency Texting
This positions Apple as the sole major phone provider offering widespread coverage for satellite emergency texting. Apple consistently promotes instances where Emergency SOS has played a crucial role in saving lives during life-threatening situations. Extending the free satellite service for another year to iPhone 14 owners is likely to result in more incidents of successful rescues.
However, Apple’s long-term plans for Emergency SOS remain unclear. At the iPhone 14 launch, Apple mentioned the initial two free years without specifying the service’s future, such as potential one-time or monthly fees. The extension of another free year adds to the uncertainty.
It’s important to note that those purchasing an iPhone 14 after the recent extension announcement won’t receive the extra year. According to Apple’s official post, only users who activated their phones in a country supporting Emergency SOS before November 15, 2023, are eligible for the extension. Given that the trial period starts at the device’s activation, individuals who bought and activated an iPhone 14 up to November 14 will enjoy three years of Emergency SOS.
Additionally, owners of the recently launched iPhone 15 will not benefit from the extra year of Emergency SOS, emphasizing the extension’s exclusivity to iPhone 14 users.
Read More (Apple)
