How to Use Crash Detection on iPhone Apple Watch: A Comprehensive Guide
With the advancement of technology, our devices are becoming more and more capable of keeping us safe. One of the latest and most important safety features to be added to the iPhone and Apple Watch is crash detection. This feature can automatically detect if you’ve been in a car crash and call for help, even if you’re unable to do so yourself.
If you’re concerned about your safety or the safety of your loved ones, it’s important to know how to use crash detection on your iPhone and Apple Watch. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to enable and use this life-saving feature.
How Crash Detection Works
Crash detection uses a combination of sensors in your iPhone and Apple Watch to detect if you’ve been in a car crash. These sensors include the accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS, and barometer. When these sensors detect a sudden change in motion, they can trigger the crash detection feature.
Once crash detection is triggered, your iPhone or Apple Watch will display an alert on the screen. You’ll have ten seconds to cancel the alert if you’re ok. If you don’t cancel the alert, your device will automatically call for help and send your location to emergency services.
How to Enable Crash Detection
Crash detection is enabled by default on the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Series 8 and later. However, if you’re not sure if it’s enabled on your device, you can check by following these steps:
For iPhone:
- Go to the Settings app.
- Tap on "Emergency SOS."
- Make sure that the "Crash Detection" switch is turned on.
For Apple Watch:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap on "My Watch."
- Tap on "Emergency SOS."
- Make sure that the "Crash Detection" switch is turned on.
Using Crash Detection
If you’re in a car crash and your iPhone or Apple Watch detects it, the crash detection feature will automatically be triggered. You’ll see an alert on the screen of your device that says "Crash Detected." You’ll have ten seconds to cancel the alert if you’re ok. If you don’t cancel the alert, your device will automatically call for help and send your location to emergency services.
If you’re unable to move or speak after a crash, crash detection can still help. Your device will automatically send your location to emergency services, even if you’re unable to call for help yourself.
Personalized Crash Detection
In addition to the basic crash detection features, the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Series 8 and later also offer personalized crash detection. This feature uses machine learning to analyze your driving patterns and identify when you’re at a higher risk of being in a crash. If you’re at a higher risk, your device will be more sensitive to sudden changes in motion and will be more likely to trigger the crash detection feature.
To enable personalized crash detection, follow these steps:
For iPhone:
- Go to the Settings app.
- Tap on "Privacy & Security."
- Tap on "Location Services."
- Tap on "System Services."
- Turn on the "Personalized Crash Detection" switch.
For Apple Watch:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap on "My Watch."
- Tap on "Privacy & Security."
- Tap on "System Services."
- Turn on the "Personalized Crash Detection" switch.
Crash Detection Table
| Feature | iPhone 14 and Later | Apple Watch Series 8 and Later |
|---|---|---|
| Crash Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Personalized Crash Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Call for Help | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency Location Sharing | Yes | Yes |
| Ten-Second Cancelation Window | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
Crash detection is a powerful safety feature that can help save lives. If you have an iPhone 14 or Apple Watch Series 8 or later, we strongly recommend that you enable crash detection. This feature can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in the event of a car crash.
FAQ about Crash Detection on iPhone & Apple Watch
What is Crash Detection?
Answer: Crash Detection is a safety feature that uses sensors in your iPhone or Apple Watch to detect severe car crashes and automatically call emergency services.
How do I enable Crash Detection on my iPhone?
Answer:
- Go to Settings
- Choose Emergency SOS
- Toggle on Crash Detection
How do I enable Crash Detection on my Apple Watch?
Answer:
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- Tap My Watch
- Select Emergency SOS
- Toggle on Crash Detection
How does Crash Detection work?
Answer: Crash Detection uses a combination of sensors, including the accelerometer, gyroscope, and GPS, to detect crashes. When a severe crash is detected, the device will play an alert sound, display a notification, and begin a countdown.
What should I do if Crash Detection is triggered?
Answer: If Crash Detection is triggered, remain calm and follow the instructions on the screen. If you are able, call emergency services manually.
What if my device is damaged in the crash?
Answer: If your device is damaged, it may not be able to connect to emergency services automatically. Try to use another device or call for help from bystanders.
Can I disable Crash Detection?
Answer: Yes, you can disable Crash Detection by following the steps outlined in "How do I enable Crash Detection on my iPhone?" or "How do I enable Crash Detection on my Apple Watch?" and toggling it off.
Does Crash Detection only work in certain countries?
Answer: Crash Detection is currently available in the following countries: Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States. More countries will be added in the future.
What if I accidentally trigger Crash Detection?
Answer: If you accidentally trigger Crash Detection, you can cancel the emergency call by tapping on the "Cancel" button in the notification.
Does Crash Detection drain my battery?
Answer: Crash Detection only runs when you are driving and does not significantly impact your battery life.
