Essential Information on Emergency Satellite Usage for Android and iOS Devices Ahead of Hurricane Milton
In a world where catastrophic weather events have become unsettlingly common, it's crucial to be prepared for emergencies. As the ferocious Category 4 storm Hurricane Milton bears down on Florida, expect gale-force winds over 110 mph and monstrous storm surges of 10 feet or more. Federal authorities predict widespread destruction, potential loss of life, and grave peril for those unwilling or unable to evacuate. preparations
If you're fortunate enough to own a cutting-edge smartphone, like the latest iPhone or Google Pixel, you're in luck. These devices provide emergency satellite connections that could save your life in times of crisis. However, remember that satellites work best under open skies – which might not be ideal during a hurricane. The National Weather Service suggests these connections serve as a last resort when all else fails.
This year, Google introduced Emergency Satellite SOS for the new Pixel 9. For iPhone users, satellite SOS features are available on models 14, 15, and 16, with iOS 16.4 or the recommended iOS 18. These innovative services have caused a stir in public settings like concerts, but they've unquestionably saved lives.
To access satellite services, iPhone users should ensure their devices are connected to Wi-Fi or cellular networks whenever possible. If traditional channels fail, phones automatically switch to emergency satellite connectivity. This process sends messages to emergency services, even under challenging conditions.
Google's advanced SOS services are exclusive to the Pixel 9 and its variants, including the Pro, XL, and Fold. Android users lacking these devices can explore satellite communicator options from brands like Motorola or Garmin.
Lastly, don't forget to download the FEMA app on iOS or Android. This app will provide information about shelters if you need to evacuate.
iPhone Emergency Services Essentials
To get the most out of your iPhone's emergency features, make sure it's running iOS 18 or later. In case of an emergency, the phone can contact emergency services automatically following a fall or car collision. This has caused some public commotion but is undeniably lifesaving.
If your calls fail to connect, the iPhone offers an alternative: Emergency Text via satellite. Select Report Emergency, then respond to the on-screen prompts. It may take around 30 seconds to send a message, though it could take longer if obstacles like trees or walls are in the way. You should remain on the screen to ensure your message sends correctly and see any emergency responses.
Additionally, you can text emergency contacts directly using satellite messages. Access this feature through the Control Center by swiping down from the top right corner of your phone, then tapping the Cellular button and choosing Satellite and Emergency SOS via satellite. Android users, take note: messages to non-iPhone users will resort to regular SMS, according to Apple.
iOS 18 offers the option for live video calling with emergency services with participating U.S. operators, provided you have a stable internet connection.
Preparing Your iPhone for Emergencies
To ensure emergency responders have all the information they need, set up a Medical ID in the Health app. This feature shares crucial details about your medical history, allergies, and medications with first responders. Enable the option for your phone to contact emergency services and selected loved ones in dire situations.
If your emergency contacts use iPhones, the conversation between you and emergency services will be shared automatically. Friends with Android devices will receive a text message instead of the number 767911. They'll have to respond "YES" before receiving your location and the transcript of your conversation.
Android Satellite Messaging Tips
Access Google's satellite services with a Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, or 9 Pro Fold. These are the only Android phones currently equipped with Google's specific satellite technology. Ensure you establish contacts in your phone who can be notified of your status and location. Use the Personal Safety app to set up these contacts and benefit from real-time location sharing.
In case of an emergency, call 911 using your standard Phone app. If that fails, choose the Satellite SOS option to contact emergency services via satellite. Fill out the on-screen prompts to provide emergency responders with vital information about your condition. Remember that using satellite connection during hazardous weather conditions is risky, so proceed with caution. It could take several minutes to send a long message via satellite and receive a response.
- In the aftermath of a technology revolution, emergency satellite connections have emerged as potential lifesavers in times of crisis, like Hurricane Milton, on devices such as iPhone 14, 15, and 16, or the latest Google Pixel 9.
- To take advantage of the advanced technology, iPhone users need to download iOS 18 or later, which enables automatic emergency contacting and satellite texting in adverse conditions.
- Android users, specifically Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold owners, can access Google's satellite services directly through their phones, while non-Google Android users may need satellite communicators from brands like Motorola or Garmin.
- In the case of emergencies, users must remember that satellite messages can take longer to send and receive, especially in challenging weather conditions like hurricanes, potentially compromising safety.
