Apple is teaming up with AAA and Verizon to provide roadside assistance to iPhone users who experience car problems in areas without cellular coverage. Here’s what we know about this new partnership.
Good news, since iOS 17.2, users who have a Verizon SIM card can connect to Verizon via satellite to get roadside assistance on the iPhone. This option is in addition to the already existing AAA roadside assistance option, announced by Apple as part of iOS 17.
If you own an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15, you can now use satellite connectivity to not only send emergency messages in the event of an accident, but you will now also have access to Verizon’s roadside assistance service.
Also read – iPhone 14: emergency SOS via satellite saves a hiker after an accident
How does the roadside assistance service work?
Verizon’s roadside assistance program is run by Allstate-owned Signature Motor Club and predictably offers help with car problems, even if you’re in a friend’s car or in a rental car.
He understands vehicle towing up to 10 miles in any direction, winching, fuel delivery, emergency starts, tire maintenance And much more. Verizon offers a monthly subscription of $4.99 per line, but also a flat fee for Verizon customers who use the service without a subscription.
Users will also have the option to opt for pay-as-you-go pricing. In this case you will have to pay $154 for a 5-mile tow (plus $7.25 for each additional mile), $98 for a tire change and $92 for a fuel delivery, unlock or jump start.
As with Emergency SOS via satellite, the new roadside assistance feature requires you to be in an area without cellular coverage on your network. Once in this situation, you will need to compose a new message in Messages. Then type “Roadside Assistance” in the contact field to see the Satellite Roadside Assistance option. Once the option is selected, a prompt will appear allowing you to select the type of car problem you are experiencing.
Whether it’s being locked out of the car, running out of fuel or battery, or even a flat tire, this new option should save many iPhone owners. Unfortunately, for the moment, there is no question of such a service arriving in other countries.