Satellite - Orbital connection & the future of mobile communication

With Apple launching Emergency SOS via Satellite across its iPhone 14 range and unlocking incredible new possibilities thanks to cutting-edge technology, all eyes are on what’s next.

Innovators such as SpaceX are taking connectivity to new heights, and in the decades to come, they could change how we keep in touch forever.

INTRODUCING EMERGENCY SOS VIA SATELLITE

Though it’s a feature that we hope few will ever have to use, Emergency SOS via satellite is a level up in the way we communicate and access emergency services. All phones in the iPhone 14 lineup, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max, can connect directly to a satellite through a combination of custom-designed components and deeply integrated software as part of iOS 16, allowing consumers to access emergency services and features like Find My when off-grid and without access to WiFi or cellular coverage.

Apple says the new service offers a “360-degree approach” to sharing information with emergency services as well as friends and family, immediately connecting users to emergency services equipped to receive text messages and relay centers with Apple-trained emergency specialists who can contact emergency responders.

Speaking of the new service, which launched as part of the iOS 16.1 update, Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, said: “Some of the most popular places to travel are off the beaten path and simply lack cellular coverage. With Emergency SOS via satellite, the iPhone 14 lineup provides an indispensable tool that can get users the help they need while they are off the grid. Our teams worked tirelessly to tackle a new set of technical challenges to bring this service to life, in addition to building a reliable, on-the-ground infrastructure. Emergency SOS via satellite is a breakthrough service available only on the iPhone 14 lineup and an innovation we hope will provide our customers with some peace of mind.”