US avalanche: iPhone's "Emergency SOS via Satellite" aided rescue
For several years, Apple has offered the ability to communicate via text message outside of mobile reception areas. In the USA, it saved lives.
Emergency call via satellite on the iPhone: Currently still free.
(Image: Apple)
During a severe avalanche in the Tahoe area in the US states of Nevada and California, the satellite emergency call function integrated into current iPhones also played a role. According to a report by the New York Times, the six survivors from last Tuesday not only had an emergency beacon with them to be found faster, but also communicated with the rescue services via an Apple smartphone they carried. For a period of four hours, one of the ski guides who was with the group of victims remained in contact with the Sheriff's Office on the Nevada side. He was able to pass on information to convey which rescue measures were possible, including assessments of the situation.
Included from iPhone 14
The function, which is called "Emergency SOS via Satellite" in English and "Notruf SOS via Satellit" in German (Overview of covered countries), is available on all iPhones from the 14 model series, released in autumn 2022. The service is currently offered by Apple free of charge for at least two years after a device is activated, but in practice, no money has ever been charged.
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The idea: Users should be able to call for help in areas without mobile coverage, including location data. Voice communication is not possible, but text messages can be sent. The iPhone must have a clear view of one of the Globalstar satellites used. In practice, it works like this: First, you should try to dial the local emergency number. If no connection is established, the iPhone offers the satellite emergency call function. Users should go outside beforehand; reception is not available indoors.
No full internet
In addition to the emergency call function, Apple also allows sending text messages to friends and family, including location data. In future iPhone generations, full internet access could also be added. In the USA, T-Mobile also offers an alternative via Starlink.
The avalanche incident in Tahoe caused concern in the USA. At least six amateurs and three ski guides died, whose bodies have since been recovered on the Californian side.
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