Emergency satellite calling available on iPhone in Australia

Apple’s iPhone satellite calling feature has launched in Australia and New Zealand on Monday.

The new feature, which was previously launched in the USA, UK, Canada and parts of Europe, allows iPhone users to make calls and send messages even in areas with little or no mobile phone coverage, using low Earth orbit satellites.

The announcement was made by Apple on Monday morning. The new feature will be available across every model in the iPhone 14 lineup.

Watch the latest News on Channel 7 or stream for free on 7plus >>

According to Apple, the satellite calling feature is designed for users who are in areas without cellular coverage, such as when camping, hiking or Travelling to remote areas. With the satellite calling feature, users can make emergency calls, send messages and even share their location with others, regardless of whether they are connected to a mobile network or not.

The feature works by using a combination of satellite and mobile technologies. When a user is in an area without coverage, their iPhone will automatically switch to satellite mode to make the call or send the message. The iPhone will use the Globalstar satellite network to connect to the nearest satellite, which will then relay the call or message to the recipient.

Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, said the Albanese government welcomed the launch of the safety capabilities of the iPhone.

“Australians know full well the importance of remaining connected in regional, rural, and remote areas, particularly when they need emergency services.

“The ability to contact triple-0 with Emergency SOS via satellite when there is no mobile coverage is a strong backup to keep Australians connected in an emergency,” Rowland said in a statement released to media.

Emergency SOS via satellite and Find My satellite require iOS 16.4 or later.