Apple Unveils Satellite-Based Roadside Assistance For iPhone 15 Users At 'Wonderlust' Event

Apple Inc AAPL, on Tuesday, announced a feature on its new iPhone 15 lineup targeting car owners and driving enthusiasts at its “Wonderlust” event.

What Happened: Roadside assistance via satellite builds on Apple’s existing satellite infrastructure used for emergency SOS. It helps connect users to a roadside assistance provider if their car runs into trouble even while they are off the grid and a call can’t go through.

In the U.S., the feature is being launched with AAA Roadside assistance.

How To Use: To avail of the service, a user simply has to text roadside assistance and the iPhone screen will show a series of common troubles that the driver may need help with. This includes getting locked out, running out of fuel or charge, a flat tire or even that the vehicle doesn’t start. The iPhone user can also detail any other trouble they might be facing.

The interface will then guide the user to connect to a satellite. The information will be shared with a roadside assistance provider who will then dispatch help to your location with the right tools and equipment.

Why It Matters: Apple already has an emergency SOS via satellite feature for serious emergencies that require a first responder.

The Emergency SOS via satellite feature allows users to message emergency services even when cellular and WiFi coverage is not available. 

The Emergency Satellite SOS feature is available across 14 countries including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the U.S.. It will also expand to Spain and Switzerland this month.

Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by following this link.

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