Apple Wants You To Practice SOS Calls On New Feature, So You Don’t Panic

With the release of the iPhone 14 and iOS 16, Apple has also introduced a new feature to its phones: the ability to connect to satellites to send out distress calls and messages.
 
The new upgrade has rolled out in the US and Canada, and is meant to aid users who do not have access to cellular networks but desperately need to contact emergency services. However, as this is a new function, Apple doesn’t want iPhone 14 owners to feel even more overwhelmed by figuring out how the app works for the first time when stuck in a sticky situation. 

 
Instead, the company calls for its users to practice on the app should anything go awry off the grid. Ultimately, this may be the one app it hopes you’ll never have to use.

To get started, you will have to upgrade your iPhone 14 to the latest version. After which, you will find the Demo in the Emergency SOS section of Settings. Once inside, the app will guide you through different steps on what to do. And don’t worry, you won’t actually be connected to any real operators when doing so.
 
While your first instinct may be to call 911, that might not be an option. The app instead lets you message emergency services and send them your location. You will be asked a few standard questions, such as whether you are alone, injured, stranded, or trapped on land or near water.

In addition, the new feature makes it possible to reach your friends and family through the Find My app.
 
Emergency SOS services tap into a satellite network that uses Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). However, Apple does warn that as satellites are so far from Earth, the messages and calls are not instantaneous and will take a few minutes to be sent out.

Beyond North America, the tech giant intends to expand the feature to France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK in December.
 
 
 
[via Engadget and Lifewire, images via Apple]