Shock detection: the new function of the iPhone 14

During the launch of its iPhone 14 and its new smartwatch models, Apple took the opportunity to show off its new security function called “Crash Detection”. With her, now the brand’s phones and watches will be able to determine if, in the face of a very violent jolt, it was a car accident.

With this function, Apple will try to save the lives of hundreds of drivers who are victims of road accidents, sometimes so bad that they are not even able to call the emergency services.

What is shock detection and how does it work?

This feature is designed to detect severe automotive collisions, such as rear, front, side, or rollover collisions.. To determine if a crash has occurred, it uses the device’s GPS, along with its accelerometers and microphones.

The idea is that in the event of a serious car accident, an option appears on the screen that allows you to call 911. If after 20 seconds the user has not interacted to cancel the call, the device will automatically contact the emergency services. If you’ve set up an emergency contact, you’ll send them a message with your location.

When the emergency service answers the call, Siri will take care of broadcasting an alert message every 5 seconds, warning that the owner of the phone was the victim of a serious car accident. It will then send its estimated location and search radius.

This novelty has nothing to do with emergency messages by satellite, since it is an Apple tool designed for users stranded somewhere without coverage. In exchange, The iPhone 14 crash detector is designed for impacts in the car.

It should be noted that the system is well calibrated, so there is no risk of it activating when the user trips or when the phone is dropped.

How to activate and deactivate the shock detection function?

The function does not require configuration since it is activated by default on supported devices. In case you were wondering, Crash Detection compatible devices are all iPhone 14, Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch SE (2^a generation) and Apple Watch Ultra. Which means the company’s whole new ecosystem.

However, if you are concerned that the function will fail and call the emergency services, You can turn it off by following these steps:

1. Enter the section “Setting” on your Apple device.
2. Go to the bottom of the menu. There you will find the optionSOS Emergencies” where you need to enter.
3. In category “accident detection» uncheck the box next to Call after a serious accident.

And ready! This way you will have successfully disabled the crash detection option. If at any time you want to enable it again, just enable the switch again in the “Settings” section.