The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature is officially available starting today for Apple users in Mexico. This is a massive update for personal safety, allowing users to contact emergency services even when they are completely off the grid without any cellular or Wi-Fi signal.
This service is available for all models in the iPhone 14 lineup and later. This includes the recently announced iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. The feature is also supported on the Apple Watch Ultra 3. To use it, your devices will need to be running iOS 18.4 or watchOS 26.0.1 (or later versions).
Imagine you’re in an area with no signal and you need help. If you try to call emergency services and the call fails, your iPhone will automatically display a new interface. This system presents a short, simple questionnaire to quickly gather vital information about your situation with just a few taps.
Once you’ve answered the questions, your iPhone guides you on where to point the device to connect to an overhead satellite. This connection sends a compressed message containing your questionnaire answers, your precise location (including altitude), your battery level, and your Medical ID, if you have it enabled.
This message isn’t sent directly to local services. Instead, it goes to a dedicated relay center staffed by Apple-trained emergency specialists. These specialists will receive your information and will then contact the appropriate emergency services in Mexico on your behalf to coordinate a rescue. You can even share the transcript with your emergency contacts to keep them updated.
This satellite service also works seamlessly with Crash Detection and Fall Detection. If your device detects a severe accident and you are unresponsive, it can automatically send an alert via satellite, providing a critical safety net when you’re out of signal range.
Emergency SOS via Satellite is provided for free for two years after you activate a new, compatible iPhone or Apple Watch. The service joins other satellite-based features already available, like Find My via Satellite and Messages via Satellite.
Apple has included a built-in demo mode that lets you practice connecting to a satellite and walk through the process without actually contacting emergency services. This is a fantastic addition to Apple’s safety ecosystem, offering real peace of mind for anyone who travels, hikes, or lives in areas with spotty coverage.
What are your thoughts on this feature’s arrival in Mexico? Let us know in the comments below! Stay updated with the latest news on this by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
