Earlier this week, a family trapped amidst the raging wildfires in Maui was successfully rescued, thanks to the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on Apple Inc’s AAPL flagship smartphone iPhone 14.
What Happened: As the wildfires intensified around them, five individuals found themselves stranded in a vehicle in an area devoid of cell phone service. However, one of them had an iPhone 14, which proved to be a lifesaver.
A post on X.com by Michael J. Miraflor shared the ordeal his brother’s girlfriend’s cousin and his family went through while being in a vehicle surrounded by a sudden eruption of wildfire around them.
The device’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature enabled them to contact first responders, 9to5Mac reports.
This feature, introduced by Apple with the iPhone 14, allows users to reach out to emergency services in areas without cellular connectivity. In this instance, the iPhone relayed the family’s dire situation and location to a relay center, which then informed the fire department. Approximately 30 minutes later, the family was rescued.
See Also: Canada Wildfires Send Air Quality In US Cities Plummeting: How To See If You Are One Of The Millions
Why It Matters: The wildfires in Maui and Hawaiʻi Island have led to the evacuation of thousands and the closure of major roadways, according to a statement by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.
Amidst such calamities, technological advancements like the iPhone’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature play a crucial role in ensuring safety and timely rescues. In December, it was reported that the feature saved the life of a man who was stranded in a remote area of Alaska.
Furthermore, companies like Verizon Communications are stepping up by offering relief to affected customers in Maui, waiving call/text/data usage incurred from Aug. 10 to Aug. 23, 2023, as mentioned in a press statement.
Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com
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