Finally, a lifesaver for clueless adventurers
In a move that makes us wonder how we survived before, Apple has decided that Mexicans are already mature enough to have their SOS Emergency service via satellite. Imagine: being able to ask for help when you get lost in the mountains because Google Maps didn’t load. A true revolution, almost like discovering fire, but with a better design.
This technology, which our northern neighbors and other privileged countries already enjoyed, has finally landed on our territory. Of course, it’s not for everyone: only for those who have an iPhone 14 or newer, or the brand new Apple Watch Ultra 3. Because clearly, if your iPhone is older, your life is worth less. It’s the logic of the market, dear friends.
When your phone becomes your best (and only) friend
The magic happens when, in your brilliant decision to climb a volcano without a guide, you realize that there is no sign. Instead of resigning yourself to being eaten by coyotes, your Apple device, in its infinite wisdom, offers you the option of connecting to a satellite. An icon appears where before there was only the existential void of “No service”. Isn’t it moving?
The procedure is as simple as ordering an Uber, but with slightly more dramatic consequences. You dial 911, your iPhone, with the patience of a saint, tells you that there is no network, and you, with a trembling finger, touch the green “Emergency text” button. Then comes the fun part: an existential quiz. “What’s your emergency?” with options ranging from “Car Problem” (translation: I took a wrong turn and now I’m stuck in a ravine) to “Lost or Trapped Person” (translation: I don’t know where I am and I’m embarrassed to admit it).
And then, the jewel in the crown: you have to point your gadget towards the sky as if you were praying to the technological gods. A bar turns green when the connection is good, because satellites like to be looked at directly. If everything goes well, in a few minutes – which will surely feel like an eternity – you will receive a response. Because what would an emergency be without the read receipt, right?
The price of (possible) salvation
Here comes the best: the service is free for two years. Because apparently, after that period, you either renew by buying another very expensive iPhone, or you deal with smoke signals. It’s the cycle of technological life: your security has an expiration date, perfectly synchronized with the launch of the next model.
And in case you were wondering, it was already possible to send messages via satellite with iMessage. Because clearly, the priority was to let your WhatsApp group know that you were late, not to save your skin. Satellite communications for frivolities first, for emergencies later. An impeccable logical order.
So now you know, intrepid and potentially unfortunate user. The next time you decide to venture into the unknown with your expensive device, remember that Apple has been kind enough to offer you a backup mechanism. Let’s just hope the satellites are in the mood that day and that you’re not in the middle of a storm when you try to connect. Because, let’s be honest, what could go wrong?
Did you like finding out about this peculiar functionality? Share this note with those friends who always get lost in their adventures (or misadventures). And be sure to explore more technology-related content on our platform, where we unravel the mysteries of the gadgets that rule our lives.
