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Emergency SOS via satellite (apple.com)

567 points by tosh · 1392 days ago · 464 comments on HN

Article summary

Apple has announced the availability of Emergency SOS via satellite on the iPhone 14 lineup in the US and Canada, with expansion to France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK in December. This feature allows users to connect with emergency services when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage are not available. The service is included for free for two years starting at the time of activation of a new iPhone 14. It requires iOS 16.1 and uses a combination of custom-designed components and deeply integrated software to connect directly to a satellite.

Main themes

  • satellite emergency services
  • iPhone 14 features
  • technology innovation
  • privacy and tracking
  • corporate control and competition
  • technical details and infrastructure
  • comparisons to science fiction

What commenters say

  • The Emergency SOS via satellite feature is a groundbreaking innovation that can save lives, especially in remote areas with no cellular coverage.
  • The feature's availability and seamless integration into the iPhone 14 lineup is a significant improvement over existing satellite communication devices.
  • Some commenters are concerned about the potential for Apple to track users' locations, even when they are off-grid, although others point out that this requires conscious user action.
  • The use of satellite-based emergency services raises questions about accessibility and cost, particularly for those who may not be able to afford the service or have an emergency outside of their paid subscription period.
  • The comparison to Star Trek's futuristic devices highlights the rapid progress of technology, but also the limitations and trade-offs of modern devices, such as the lack of freedom to install custom applications.
  • Some argue that the feature's proprietary nature and control by a single corporation are concerns, while others note that there are competitors in the satellite communication market.
  • The technical details of the satellite communication system, including the use of Globalstar's network and the specific frequency bands, are of interest to some commenters, who discuss the implications for performance and compatibility.