Apple is expanding its iPhone-based emergency services with Roadside Assistance via satellite, which will connect people experiencing car trouble in remote areas with AAA.
Those with an iPhone 14 can already tap into Emergency SOS via satellite, which contacts emergency responders via satellite for those in car accidents or injured in the wilderness. Roadside Assistance via satellite is a similar concept but it calls AAA instead of 911.
"When a user has car trouble and cellular and Wi-Fi coverage are not available, they can now connect to AAA, the country’s largest roadside assistance provider," Apple says.
Both services will be available on iPhone 14 and the newly announced iPhone 15 for free for US users for two years.
Drivers indicate the type of service they need on a short questionnaire, choosing from options like "locked out," "flat tire," or "vehicle stuck." Then, Apple will then transmit the information via satellite to AAA, which will take it from there.
While it's free for Apple to connect drivers to AAA, the company says AAA "may charge for roadside assistance services." Still, it's a big benefit for those who find themselves in a pickle and have not previously signed up for a AAA membership, which is usually required for their services.
"iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 users who are not AAA members can take advantage of Roadside Assistance via satellite on a pay-per-use basis for AAA’s roadside assistance services," Apple says. Apple has not said how much its emergency features will cost after two years.
The new iPhone 15 also supports Crash Detection, which will alert authorities if it suspects you've been in a car accident (or on a roller coaster).
Emergency SOS is currently available in 14 countries and regions and will expand to Spain and Switzerland later this month.