Apple has revealed a new emergency satellite connectivity service for its iPhone 14 smartphone that can send text messages for help even when a user has no mobile phone signal.
The company launched four new iPhone 14 models on Wednesday night, including a redesigned “Pro” version of its smartphone that removes the controversial “notch” from previous generations.
It also updated its range of smartwatches, adding a more expensive Apple Watch Ultra model, designed for elite athletes and adventurers.
The launch of the technology has not attracted the same interest as in previous years, as smartphones become more and more iterative and updates are incremental.
Apple’s major updates focused on improved security features on its devices. Their latest generation of smartphones will include improved hardware that will allow them to pick up distant satellite signals and send a short text message.
The messaging service is designed for emergency situations when a user is in a remote area without landline mobile phone coverage.
Apple’s service, which will launch in November, will beat rivals like Elon Musk to develop a mobile satellite service. Other companies are working on similar technology.
Ben Woods, an analyst at CCS Insight, said: “Instead of ‘Far Out’ back for this event, Apple could have said, ‘We’ve got your back.'” The introduction of features such as the detection accidents, emergency satellite messaging, enhanced healthcare capabilities and more, it builds on its already established reputation for security and privacy.”