Apple’s Satellite-based Roadside Assistance Feature Launches in the UK

When Apple introduced the iPhone 14 series back in 2022, one of its standout features was the ability to connect to satellites during emergencies when cellular networks were unavailable. This functionality enabled users to communicate with emergency services and share their location through the Find My service, which initially launched in the United States and Canada before expanding to additional countries in Europe.

During the launch event for the iPhone 15, Apple revealed that it would extend the Satellite Roadside Assistance feature to both the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series. This service, developed in collaboration with AAA and Verizon Roadside Assistance in the U.S., enhances users’ ability to request breakdown services even in areas lacking cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.

Recently, following the announcement made during the iPhone 16 event last month, Apple has rolled out this feature to the United Kingdom in partnership with Green Flag, a well-known breakdown recovery service operating across the U.K. The updated support page on Apple’s website indicates that users who are not Green Flag members will incur a pay-per-use fee, although it does not specify whether this fee is waived for members.

To access this feature, users need to open the Messages app and create a new message. By typing “roadside”in the address field, an option labeled “Roadside Assistance via Satellite”will appear. Selecting it will lead to on-screen instructions for requesting assistance.

Initially, when the iPhone 14 was launched, Apple announced that satellite connectivity, including Roadside Assistance, would be available to users for free for two years from device activation. This period was extended during the launch of the iPhone 15 series, allowing iPhone 14 users an overall total of three years of service. Apple has yet to provide clarity on the pricing framework for this feature.

Source: MacRumors

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