Summary
An iPhone feature called Emergency SOS via satellite helped save six skiers during a deadly avalanche near Lake Tahoe, California. This feature allows people to send messages to emergency services when there is no cell service available. The avalanche, which killed eight people and left one person missing, highlighted the lifesaving potential of this technology.
Key Facts
- Six skiers were rescued using the iPhone's Emergency SOS via satellite during an avalanche near Lake Tahoe.
- The avalanche resulted in eight fatalities and one missing person.
- Apple's Emergency SOS feature works when there is no access to cellular networks.
- The feature is available on iPhone 14 models or later running iOS 16.1 or higher.
- Users can text emergency services directly via satellites if regular phone networks are unavailable.
- The feature's ability to work in remote areas has sparked discussions about its importance and whether it should be free.
- Some people worry that this safety feature might become a paid service in the future.
- In a demo, users can learn how to use the satellite connection without contacting emergency services.
