Emergency SOS feature integrated into the iPhones is a critical time saver for reaching emergency services and contacts in an urgent situation. iPhone 15 and iPhone 14’s can even send SOS alerts via satellite. But if this feature is being triggered accidentally, say via Crash Detection, children, or your pocket, you can disable it entirely.
Here’s how to turn off SOS on iPhone:
To disable Apple’s Emergency SOS shortcuts, go to Settings > Emergency SOS and turn off Call with Hold and Release, Call with 5 Button Presses, and (if you have an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 running iOS 16 or later) Call After Severe Crash.
You can leave one or more of those options on if you’ve identified that a particular option is causing you trouble.
What is Emergeny SOS and how does it work?
Emergency SOS is a feature available on iPhones designed to help users quickly and discreetly call emergency services and notify their emergency contacts in case of a crisis. It can be a lifesaver in situations where immediate assistance is needed.
One of the most praised features of the iPhone 14, the satellite-based Emergency SOS, recently saved the lives of two individuals.
Activation Methods:
iPhone 8 or later:
Press and hold the side button along with one of the volume buttons until the Emergency SOS slider appears. Drag the slider to call emergency services.
Alternatively, if you continue holding down the buttons, a countdown begins, and an alert sounds. If you hold the buttons until the countdown ends, your iPhone will automatically call emergency services.
iPhone 7 or earlier:
Rapidly press the side (or top) button five times. The Emergency SOS slider will appear. Drag the slider to call emergency services.
Making the Call:
Once the Emergency SOS call is initiated, your iPhone automatically dials the local emergency number (such as 911 in the United States).
Notifying Emergency Contacts:
After the call ends, your iPhone sends a text message to your emergency contacts (unless you choose to cancel this option). This message includes your current location, and for a period of time after you enter SOS mode, your iPhone will send updates to your contacts when your location changes.
Medical ID:
If you have set up your Medical ID, emergency responders can access important medical information from the lock screen without needing your passcode. This can be set up in the Health app under Medical ID.
Emergency SOS is a crucial feature for personal safety, enabling users to get help quickly and alert loved ones without navigating multiple steps on their device.
