Title: Apple Extends Free Emergency SOS Service on iPhone 14/14 Pro for an Additional Year
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In a bid to enhance user safety and bring peace of mind, Apple has announced an extension of its free Emergency SOS service via satellite to the iPhone 14/14 Pro for another year. This move provides iPhone 14 users with a total of three years of complimentary access to the service, instead of the initial two.
The extension seems to be aimed at aligning the support timeline for iPhone 14 users with those who purchase the new iPhone 15/15 Pro. While iPhone 15 users will continue to receive two years of satellite emergency services bundled with their devices, users of the iPhone 14 will have to pay for the service once the deal expires.
Apple’s motive behind extending the service could be to allow users more time to explore and appreciate additional services that can be bundled with Emergency SOS. As part of recent advancements, Apple included Roadside Assistance via satellite in collaboration with AAA. Moreover, the Find My app enables users to send location pings to friends when they are in an area with no cellular service.
Although the exact cost has not been disclosed, it is anticipated that Apple users will eventually have to pay for the service. Rumors suggest that the company might introduce a monthly usage fee of $5 or incorporate it as part of the Apple One subscription.
Competing services such as Garmin’s InReach charge approximately $15 per month for consistent satellite service, making Apple’s plan appear more affordable.
Personal safety features have become a crucial selling point for smartphones. The notion is that a phone should not only be a communication device but also capable of potentially saving lives. Android devices offer similar features, including car crash detection and Medical ID.
Apple continues to prioritize user safety, with the extension of the Emergency SOS service showcasing its dedication to providing exceptional and reliable assistance during emergencies.
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