What is accident detection
Before we start to see which iPhone models have this feature, it is important to see what accident detection is. If we are driving, and the iPhone detects a very strong crash or collision while we are driving (it can be a van, a van, a caravan, etc.), and we do not respond, our phone will be able to call emergency services to send our location data.
When the iPhone detects that we have had an accident, a screen with a digital slider is displayed that allows us to call the emergency services. But in case we are not able to reply, after 20 seconds, the iPhone will call for us and it will broadcast a recording with our location, and explaining that it is the iPhone that is calling to say that we have had an accident.
Also, if we have configured emergency contacts, the iPhone will automatically send them an alert message with our location, and indicating that we have had an accident. That, along with calling the emergency services, is what sets up the accident detection mode.
From Apple Watch to iPhone
This function is also present in the Apple Watch. And if we have a watch that is compatible with this mode, but we don’t have an iPhone that does have this option, we can take advantage of it through the Apple Watch. Note that iPhone models that support accident detection do not require an Apple Watch to call 911. But, directly, the function will appear on the phone’s own screen.
For our iPhone to call emergencies we will need it to be on and with battery. In addition, you can call the emergency services through a Wi-Fi network or through a mobile coverage network connectionso this function is compatible with Wi-Fi calls, in case we are connected to a wireless network, but we do not have coverage, and as long as our telephone operator allows us to activate this function.
Currently only the iPhone 14 family has this function. Therefore, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max have accident detection. Apple Watch models that have this feature include Apple Watch Series 8, the second-generation Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Ultra. Similarly, at this time Apple requires as a requirement that we have the latest version of iOS or watchOS installed.
If we have an iPhone 11, 12 or 13, but we have one of these compatible Apple Watch, we will have this accident detection function. But, nevertheless, it will work thanks to the Apple Watch. That is why in this case it is important to have the watch on battery and correctly paired with the iPhone.