With each new generation of the iPhone, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what its range of smartphones is capable of. The latest iteration, the iPhone 14, doubled down on safety features with its Emergency SOS via Satellite feature. This feature was put to the test recently. A group of college students in Utah found themselves in a dangerous situation.

The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on the iPhone 14 allows users to contact emergency services even if they are out of range of a cellular network. This was the case for a group of college students in Utah who found themselves trapped in a 500-foot-deep canyon. Fortunately, they were able to use this feature to call for help and were rescued by search and rescue teams.

This feature works by utilizing satellite technology to establish a connection with emergency services. This connection is prioritized over regular phone calls and messages. It ensures that help arrives quickly in situations like the one the Utah college students were in.

Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature is illustrated. Images via Apple.

The Importance of Emergency Features on Smartphones

The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on the iPhone 14 highlights the importance of having emergency features on our smartphones. In emergency situations, every second counts, and having access to a reliable method of contacting emergency services can make all the difference.

It’s not just the iPhone 14 that offers these features, many other smartphones come with similar emergency features. It’s important for users to familiarize themselves with these features. And you need to know how to use them in case of an emergency.

Apple Says CarPlay Now Available in Over 800 Vehicle Models as GM Plans to Phase Out Support in EVs

Apple has announced that its CarPlay technology is now available in over 800 vehicle models. This is a significant milestone for the company, as it continues to integrate its technology into more aspects of our lives. However, at the same time, General Motors (GM) has announced plans to phase out CarPlay support in some of its electric vehicles (EVs).

Apple’s CarPlay integration is demonstrated in a Mercedes with a digital driver display. Image via Apple.

The Growth of CarPlay

CarPlay was first introduced by Apple in 2014 and has since become an increasingly popular feature in new vehicles. It allows drivers to connect their iPhone to their car’s dashboard display, giving them access to a variety of features and apps, including music, maps, and messaging.

The technology is now available in over 800 vehicle models from more than 60 leading car brands, including Ford, BMW, and Porsche. This widespread adoption of CarPlay is a testament to its popularity among both drivers and car manufacturers.

GM’s Plans to Phase Out CarPlay Support in EVs

Despite the growing popularity of CarPlay, General Motors has announced that it will be phasing out support for the technology in some of its electric vehicles. This decision has been met with some criticism from consumers who have come to rely on CarPlay in their cars.

GM has stated that it will be focusing on developing its own infotainment system for its EVs, which will offer features that are specifically tailored to electric vehicles. This decision is not unique to GM, as many other car manufacturers are also developing their own in-car technology.

The AppleTLDR take

Apple’s rapidly expanding ecosystem of deeply integrated services continues to be best in class. The marriage of hardware, software, and services is unrivaled. Saving lives is perhaps the best illustration of this. It’s naive of General Motors to think that it can compete with Apple’s ecosystem. Ultimately customers will vote with their wallets when making their next vehicle purchase.