Report: Satellite SOS features in the works for upcoming iPhones


Bloomberg is reporting Apple is developing satellite communications for upcoming iPhones. Reportedly, the features have been in the works for years. The new rumors are generated by speculation of satellite capabilities in modems expected to turn up in upcoming iPhones.

Apple Inc.’s push to bring satellite capabilities to the iPhone will be focused on emergency situations, allowing users to send texts to first responders and report crashes in areas without cellular coverage.

The company is developing at least two related emergency features that will rely on satellite networks, aiming to release them in future iPhones, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

The new features would bring the ability to send SMS messages via a satellite. The rumored capabilities sound similar to emergency features from Garmin and others makers of GPS-enabled devices. Essentially, you can message a paid service if you require rescue. Typically this would be an emergency situation while out of cellular range. Once received, search and rescue resources in your area would be alerted with your location and potentially additional details provided in messages.

The Garmin InReach GPS devices also provide abilities to message others and allow you to share your location with people. These features are all very handy when in remote areas as both a lifeline and comfort to those at home. This would seem a great feature to add to a smartphone where Apple would likely consume another niche industry. The service will likely involve a subscirption fee to either a satellite provider or perhaps through Apple itself.

Bloomberg also reports that a similar service would be available to report emergency situations. Such as a fire or crash.

Bloomberg seems skeptical this feature would launch with this fall's iPhones but could appear later in the year. It's also possible it could be tagged for a future iPhone or may not come to market.