iOS 12 is going to have a ton of exciting new features for users to fool around with, but one in particular just might save your life. When the iPhone update hits later this year, Apple will automatically share your location with first responders whenever you dial 9-1-1. Currently, the phones use Hybridized Emergency Location technology to estimate your location when an emergency call is being made. With this update, responders will have your exact location so they can reach you faster in any emergency.
CEO of Apple Tim Cook said in a statement “when every moment counts, these tools will help first responders reach our customers when they most need assistance.” When 70% of emergency calls are made from mobile phones, it is important to prioritize the accuracy of locating the caller. The Federal Communications Commission is making it regulatory for cell phones to locate callers within 50 meters for 80% of 9-1-1 calls made from mobile phones by the year 2021. Apple is getting a head start by developing this into iOS 12 which could make the brand more appealing for parents who are buying their kids phones.
In order to protect the caller’s privacy, location will only be shared while the call is being made, and it will be sent securely encrypted to the nearest 9-1-1 call center.
