Apple devices represent some of the most advanced technology available today. Beyond enhancing everyday experiences, these devices also offer life-saving features that have been instrumental in various real-life situations. iPhones and Apple Watches, in particular, are equipped with features like fall detection, emergency SOS, high and low heart rate alerts, ECG, and more. These features are continually upgraded with each new flagship release.
However, knowing how to use these features effectively is crucial. If not activated or understood, they cannot serve their intended purpose in emergencies. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with these features could prove invaluable in critical situations. In this article, we explore four essential emergency features available on iPhones and Apple Watches:
Emergency SOS: With Emergency SOS, users can swiftly call for help and notify emergency contacts. Depending on the country, initiating Emergency SOS on an iPhone involves rapidly pressing the side button three times. This action automatically calls local emergency services and shares your precise location. Alternatively, pressing and holding the side button along with a volume button initiates a countdown before placing the SOS call.
Crash Detection: Available on iPhone 14 and later models, as well as Apple Watch Series 8 and newer models, Crash Detection automatically places an emergency call if the device detects a serious impact, such as a car crash. The devices sound an alarm and initiate a countdown before calling emergency services. Note that not all crash scenarios may be detected.
Emergency Contacts: In addition to emergency services, users can designate emergency contacts who receive alerts when an Emergency SOS call is made. Setting up or updating emergency contacts is done through the Settings app under Emergency SOS or through the Health app where users can edit their Medical ID.
Emergency SOS via Satellite: Introduced with iPhone 14 and 15 models, Emergency SOS via Satellite ensures that even without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, users can send an emergency message for help. Apple provides a demo mode to familiarize users with this feature before it might be needed in an actual emergency.
These features underscore Apple’s commitment to integrating advanced technology with real-world safety measures, empowering users to handle emergencies effectively with their devices.
