Apple announced a satellite connectivity feature on the iPhone 14 Series. This feature allows users to send emergency messages in areas without an internet network.
Apple said emergency messages via the satellite feature were designed to support the activities of people who like to explore nature or climb mountains, which are difficult to reach via the internet.
So how does it work? The following is a complete explanation, as reported by The Independent, Friday (9/9/2022).
The way the satellite feature works on the iPhone 14 is actually similar to how satellite phones on the market work. However, this time Apple has designed it to be more minimalist so that it can be embedded into a slim iPhone.
It is known, satellite phones usually do have a large antenna size to make it easier to catch the signal. But a design like this would be very annoying if adopted on the iPhone.
Even though its capabilities are limited, the satellite connectivity feature of the iPhone 14 still makes it possible to connect to the nearest satellite. Users who want to use this feature must point their iPhones at the sky.
However, not carelessly aiming at the sky, users will be directed toward the satellite template by using an additional application so that emergency signals can be sent smoothly.
“To connect to these satellites, you need to be outdoors with a clear view of the sky. But the satellite is too high for the human eye to see, so we created a unique user experience that shows you where to point your phone to establish a connection and stay connected while the satellite is moving," said Apple.
Another problem with communications satellites is that the bandwidth is so low that even sending text messages is a technical challenge.
To get around this hurdle, Apple designed an interface that sends as much information as possible to emergency services through a series of quick questions presented to the user on the screen.
Questions include "Who needs help? Is anyone injured? What type of emergency is this?"
However, Apple claims that the satellite feature is actually not for real emergency scenarios, but for more relaxed and less dire situations, such as sharing your location with someone via satellite.
Apple says the feature will be available in November for the US and Canada at an early stage. This feature can be used free of charge and does not rule out the possibility that it will also be present on other iPhone models.