Apple is expanding Emergency SOS via satellite to two new countries: Australia and New Zealand. If you use an iPhone 14, you can enjoy this life-saving feature for free for the next two years.
The feature allows your iPhone to contact emergency services through text messages when you are out of mobile network range.
iPhone 14’s life-saving feature now available in New Zealand and Australia
Apple announced Emergency SOS via satellite alongside the iPhone 14 unveiling in September 2022. The feature went live in November 2022 in the United States first. It then expanded to France, Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom in December. Apple added six more European countries to Emergency SOS via satellite’s support list in March this year.
With the addition of Australia and New Zealand, Emergency SOS via satellite is now available in 14 countries.
“The Albanese government welcomes the launch of this innovative safety capability. Australians know full well the importance of remaining connected in regional, rural, and remote areas, particularly when they need emergency services. The ability to contact Triple Zero with Emergency SOS via satellite when there is no mobile coverage is a strong backup to keep Australians connected in an emergency,” said the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications. “This will go a long way in helping emergency services respond to, protect, and ultimately, keep individuals safe from harm. Australians are encouraged to familiarise themselves with this feature and whether their device supports it.”
Emergency SOS via satellite is free for two years
You can use Emergency SOS via satellite for free for two years since you first activate your new iPhone. It is unclear how much Apple will charge for the service after that. The feature is a part of the Emergency SOS app on your iPhone. It is primarily meant for use when you are in the wilderness outside of mobile network coverage and are seeking immediate help.
Check out our guide on how to contact emergency services via satellite with your iPhone 14 for more details.
