One of the features of this year's new iPhone 14 is satellite connectivity. Although this revolutionary feature cannot be used by iPhone users normally, it can only be used for emergency SOS messages in urgent cases. However, the iPhone was the first to bring this means of communication using satellites to smartphones.
Using this method, users can use iPhone to call for emergency help from any part of the world in case of emergency, and during the whole process, iPhone can directly connect to the satellite and send this SOS. It does not require any mobile network or WiFi. Currently, iPhone has only introduced this feature in the US and Canada, but they are working to bring this feature to all countries.
How does SOS via satellite work?
This Apple feature is for emergency use only. As a result, users will not be able to call or send text messages to others, these will require a normal mobile network or internet as before. This feature is normally hidden on the iPhone 14. It only turns on when the iPhone can't find any mobile network or WiFi.
Satellite communication is much slower than communication over conventional mobile networks. Because in this case the signal has to cover a much greater distance than a regular mobile network. For this work in the United States, Apple contracted with Globalstar, which provides this service through their 24 satellites.
In this case, Apple uses the usual L and S satellite band frequencies, which are completely different from the frequencies of 5G or other mobile networks. When a user sends an SOS, it first reaches a satellite orbiting the Earth, then the satellite retransmits it to various ground stations on Earth. This is how Apple provides this service.
This function requires the user to be in a high place in the open air to send a signal, it will not work (or work slowly) if there are any obstacles in or outside the house. This feature will only work if the phone is pointed directly at the satellite.
How to send a distress signal via satellite
To pick up a satellite signal, you need to point your iPhone directly at the satellite. Since the naked eye cannot tell where the satellite is, the iPhone itself helps you pick up the signal by asking you to turn the phone in different directions.
Then, once the iPhone connects to the satellite, it starts asking you a few questions instead of taking you directly to a message option from which you have to select an answer. This allows Apple to send an SOS quickly and easily.
What is GPS? How does GPS work?
Later, the answers to these questions, along with your location, contact information, and any other important information, will be sent by Apple via satellite to the appropriate location. Rescuers can then send you separate text messages via satellite.
What is required to use this feature?
Any iPhone 14 series phone is required to use this feature. However, this feature was not launched with iPhone 14. Apple introduced this feature in November 2022 with its new iOS 16. The most surprising thing is that Apple is giving this feature completely free. However, it is known that Apple may add fees to it in the future.
iPhone 14 purchased in China, Hong Kong and Macau will not have this satellite connection feature. It is possible that Apple satellites may not be able to access these areas for legal reasons. Or it could be for another reason. But iPhone 14 made for other regions will get this satellite device.
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