With Google messaging enabled as a user’s primary messaging app, satellite features can be prompted with a call to 911. If no service is available, a “satellite SOS” option will appear along with an emergency questionnaire and the chance to warn emergency contacts.

To contact your emergency contacts, you can tap Satellite SOS, then Use Satellite SOS and then Start. You will then describe your emergency, and then to notify your emergency contact, you can tap Notify. If you do not want your emergency contacts to receive the information, you can tap Don’t Notify.

Apple's new satellite service activates in the USA and Canada for emergency and regular messages when cellular reception is lost, not yet available in Israel.

In light of potential power outages and disrupted cell service, the ability to send a distress signal via satellite could be crucial.

How to stay connected if you can’t get a regular signal

Satellite messaging features on iPhones and Pixels can provide a lifeline in times of crisis. Here’s what you can do and how they could help you.

Apple has stressed that satellite messaging shouldn't be used in emergencies and says people should text emergency services using Emergency SOS via satellite.

A recent Apple software update has given iPhone users a way to stay in touch, even if extreme weather or natural disasters mean they can't rely on the cellular network.

Apple included a number of satellite-based features in its latest iPhone models to help users keep contact in an emergency. Here's what they are, and how to use them if you have no signal.