Apple enables satelite comms for UK iPhone users in roadside emergencies

Some iPhone users in the UK can now use satellite communication to get help when their car breaks down. What a time to be alive.

Yep, despite the fact the UK could fit into the state of Texas three times over, connectivity dead spots are still a common thing for British drivers and passengers. These voids for mobile signal make getting roadside assistance in particular a bit tricky, but Apple is now rolling out a solution.

Drivers or their occupants need to have an iPhone 14 or later (meaning you’ll have to have bought your iPhone new at some point since September 2022).

You’ll also need to be running iOS 17 or later. Then, in the event you find yourself in a no-signal-spot, you’ll be able to connect to Green Flag through your iPhone.

No doubt that'll come in handy for some. We’ll gloss over the fact that Apple's had to deploy tech usually associated with spaceships and the military to work around the patchy coverage on our teeny tiny island...

The internet’s five most pertinent questions about connecting your phone to a satellite for roadside recovery in the UK

What is Emergency SOS via satellite?

Apple’s new feature is one that enables iPhone users to call and message emergency services or family and friends via satellite communication if they are in a location without cellular or LTE connectivity, and an emergency – such as a car breakdown – occurs.

How can I connect my phone to a satellite?

Apple tells us we need to be patient. “Satellites move rapidly, have low bandwidth and are located hundreds of miles away from Earth. So, when you use a satellite connection, the experience is different to sending or receiving a message via mobile.”

It also advises you to ideally have a view of the sky and horizon. You don’t need to hold your phone as though you were at a Taylor Swift gig though. Just don’t put it in a pocket, and be even more patient if there’s tree cover. Over and out.

Does Apple provide instructions?

Er, yes and no. From iOS 18, there’s a Connection Assistant, which will prompt on-screen instructions. You’ll also need Locations Services turned on. Apple advises that you can do a trial run before you break down, just so you’ve seen it in action before you actually need it. Any excuse for a recce.

Do I have to be a member of Green Flag?

Green Flag is the only UK-based roadside assistance operator Apple mentions, but in the event other operators aren’t signed up, you can phone a friend, Millionaire-style.

Is Apple satellite SOS free?

Apple clarifies that its ‘Emergency SOS via satellite’ feature is free for two years after the activation of the iPhone. The service takes information like your name, your age and your emergency contacts (which it’s already verified).

Since it’s so new, it’ll be a free service for everyone until November 2025. We haven’t been given info on the subscriptions costs beyond the free trial yet though.