The latest iPhone 15 launched by Apple comes with roadside assistance via satellite feature. It is helpful to connect your iPhone to a satellite to text emergency services and share location with friends and family, even if you are struck at a place with no network coverage and Wi-Fi. This feature is of great use and acts as a roadside assistance in times of crisis.
To use this feature, you must have an iPhone 15 or 14 with iOS 17, be enrolled in Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite, and have a paid AAA membership. Apple’s Emergency SOS powers the service via Satellite technology, which uses satellites to connect to emergency services. This article further delves into all the important details regarding using Roadside Assistance via Satellite on iPhone 15.
What is Roadside Assistance via Satellite on iPhone 15?
Roadside Assistance via Satellite is a new feature on the iPhone 15 that allows you to get help from roadside assistance providers. This feature helps users to text emergency services, request roadside assistance, and share their location if they have car trouble in an area without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity.
With the Emergency SOS via Satellite, you can text roadside assistance and choose what you need help with. Options demonstrated at the latest Apple event included flat tire, no fuel, locked out, vehicle stuck, and vehicle does not start. The service will be free for two years with new iPhone 15 purchases. However, AAA members get the service for free.
Steps to Use Roadside Assistance via Satellite on iPhone 15
With the steps given below, you can conveniently access roadside assistance via satellite on your iPhone 15:
- Open the Messages app on your iPhone 15 and tap the New Message button.
- In the address field or the To section, type Roadside. If you don’t have a cellular or Wi-Fi network, you will see Roadside Assistance via satellite option; tap on it.
- Next, you will be asked what type of assistance you need, i.e., Locked Out, No Fuel or Charge, Flat Tire, etc.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to use Roadside Assistance via satellite on iPhone 15.
How Does Satellite Connection Work on iPhone?
It is well known that satellites have low bandwidth, and they move in rapid motion, located hundreds of miles away from the Earth. It is different from the usual sending and receiving of messages via cellular connection.
The key points to note on how a satellite connection works have been provided further:
- It takes around 15 seconds to send a message when the conditions are ideal, with a direct view of the sky and the horizon.
- When sending messages from under trees with light or medium foliage, the time might increase to more than a minute.
- You might not be able to connect to a satellite if you’re under heavy foliage or surrounded by other obstructions.
- Connection times can also be impacted by your surroundings, the length of your message, and the status and availability of the satellite network.
Conclusion
Roadside Assistance via Satellite is a great way to get help if you’re stranded in an area without cellular reception. It can help you get back on the road quickly and safely if you experience a breakdown or other roadside emergency. You can go through the article above to learn how to use Roadside assistance on iPhone 15.
FAQs
1. What are the Limitations of Roadside Assistance via Satellite?
Roadside Assistance via Satellite has a few limitations, including:
- It can only be used in areas where there is no cellular reception.
- It is not available in all countries. As of now, this feature is only available in the U.S.
- The service may not be available 24/7.
- There may be a waiting period before a roadside assistance provider can arrive.
2. Is Roadside Assistance via Satellite Worth it?
Whether or not Roadside Assistance via Satellite is worth it depends on your needs and budget. If you drive frequently and live in an area without cellular reception, the service may be a good investment. However, the service may not be necessary if you only drive occasionally and live in an area with good cellular coverage.
3. How Does Roadside Assistance via Satellite Work?
When you use Roadside Assistance via Satellite, your iPhone will use satellites to connect to AAA’s roadside assistance network. AAA will then dispatch a roadside assistance provider to your location to help you.
4. What Types of Assistance Can I Get with Roadside Assistance via Satellite?
Roadside Assistance via Satellite can help you with roadside emergencies, including flat tire, dead battery, lockout, fuel delivery, towing, jump start, windshield repair, and more.
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