Apple Starts Satellite Emergency SOS Service Next Month

Apple has confirmed that it is ready to launch its announced SOS emergency call shortly after investing millions in satellite operator Globalstar. It is about the option of being able to make an emergency call in the event of danger without a mobile phone connection.

Apple’s new emergency call SOS function, which will be possible with all new iPhone 14 models, should start in November, according to Apple. As announced at the iPhone event , the emergency call via satellite will only be available in the USA and Canada for the time being.

$450 million Spent for SOS service

The development of the service has so far devoured investments of 450 million dollars, Apple has now disclosed.

The new SOS message is a real innovation, since an emergency call can be made completely independently of the mobile network via a direct satellite connection. Thanks to other iOS functions , this even works automatically if an accident is detected. The new emergency call service then makes it possible to send a text message with a call for help via a satellite network.

In order to make this possible at all, Apple has set up a number of call centers in the USA and Canada in addition to a network of satellites, which accept and process the SOS calls.

“Emergency SOS via satellite is a perfect example of how American ingenuity and technology can save lives,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer, in a statement. “We are proud that this service is being made possible by leading US companies and that our users can explore off-grid areas knowing they are still within reach of emergency services in the event of an emergency.” A large part of the investment went to the company Globalstar, which owns and operates the satellite network.

Globalstar reportedly employs more than 300 people to support Apple’s new service.