July 25th, 2024

iPhones will soon be able to stream live video on 911 calls

iOS 18 will enable live video streaming during 911 calls, allowing users to video chat with dispatchers. This feature enhances emergency response and is supported by various 911 platforms.

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iPhones will soon be able to stream live video on 911 calls

iPhones will soon feature live video streaming capabilities during 911 calls as part of the iOS 18 update. This new functionality, announced at WWDC in June, allows users to video chat with 911 dispatchers and emergency responders, enhancing their ability to locate individuals in need of assistance. The integration of this feature is supported by various 911 platforms, including RapidSOS Unite and Prepared. Previously, Apple's Emergency SOS features included voice calls, text messaging, and location sharing. This addition aligns with Apple's ongoing commitment to safety, which has seen the introduction of features like Crash Detection, available on the iPhone 14 and newer models, and Emergency SOS via satellite for iPhone 14 and 15 users. This satellite feature enables users to send texts and location information to emergency responders even without cellular service. Other safety features from Apple include Fall Detection and the ability to initiate emergency calls by pressing specific buttons. Additionally, iOS 18 will introduce iMessage functionality through satellite and Roadside Assistance via satellite, further expanding the emergency support capabilities of Apple devices.

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By @jjmarr - 9 months
Will this extension be an open standard so that Android users can also benefit? I wouldn't want a scenario where green bubbles have a worse time calling 911.
By @spIrr - 9 months
I'm curious about how this will work on the receiving end - is that part of the infrastructure also provided by Apple or is there a common capability by 911 dispatch software to support incoming video?
By @Havoc - 9 months
Will this not be quite chaotic for the guys in the callcenter.

Has utility no doubt but Can’t imagine a bunch of livestream like scene are good for their focus and wellbeing

By @Eumenes - 9 months
I feel for the poor dispatchers who'll have to deal with bickering idiots on video discussing domestic/civil disputes.
By @sharpshadow - 9 months
Will they relay through Apple servers and probably only with available traffic or could the feature get free traffic and direct line to the police?

I guess going through Apple servers makes more sense and one will need an available internet connection. But this type of security features are able even to active the internet on the phone if it’s not activated.

By @jauntywundrkind - 9 months
The big submission right before this (chronologically) is Switzerland requiring software development for the state to open sourced. https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41066984

What a strong contrast. This should so clearly be based on standards and specifications, be open to interoperation for anyone making phones.

That could have even been FaceTime itself. If Apple and Jobs had opened the standards for FaceTime, like they very well promised. We believed them! We thought this company would do the right thing! https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/steve-jobs-promised-to-make...

By @bagrow - 9 months
One time I needed to call 911 and was greeted with the recorded message, "Dear Nine One One customer, your call is important to us." Customer?

Like others in the thread, I'm skeptical of plugging new tech into that network.

By @makeitdouble - 9 months
I guess this feature is US only ?

TheVerge mentions 911 while the original Apple press release doesn't touch much on the availability part.

By @cph123 - 9 months
Could the video feed be recorded from the 911 side and be admissible in court?
By @caxco93 - 9 months
Now we just need to wait for the horror movie that uses this properly