Two free years for iPhone's satellite SOS have expired

In recent years, one of the differentiating features in flagship smartphones is support for satellite telecommunications. Apple was a pioneer in implementing the technology in mainstream smartphones. Later, Android brands began to implement it in their products. The Emergency SOS Satellite features were initially free for two years for iPhone users, but they have now expired. However, they won’t actually have to pay until at least the end of next year.

The initial free use period for iPhone’s Emergency SOS Satellite features has expired

Globalstar-powered Apple’s satellite telecommunications service debuted alongside the iPhone 14 series in November 2022. The company was well ahead of its main rivals in the industry by allowing users to use satellites to communicate with emergency services if needed. People can send SMS or their location in the Find My app. The feature is especially useful for areas where there is no cell phone or WiFi coverage. It is also a potential life-saver in natural disaster situations, where telecom networks are often affected.

While the initial free-to-use period was two years, Apple extended it for an additional year in November 2023. That means users won’t have to pay a fee for using the service until at least November 2025. However, as of today, there are no specific details on the fees Apple will charge for using the Emergency SOS Satellite features. Perhaps the company is still weighing an appropriate strategy.

Apple continues to invest in its satellite features

Meanwhile, Apple has continued to invest in enhancing the capabilities of its service. In September of this year, the Cupertino giant launched Messages via satellite in the U.S. and Canada. This allows users in those regions to send and receive SMS via satellite even in their daily lives, not limited to emergency services. Plus, Apple announced this month a $1.5 billion investment in Globalstar. The investment will help expand and improve satellite services on iPhones.