Apple released a car accident detector last September with the launch of the new iPhone 14 series and the new Apple Watch models. What exactly does this mean? If you experience an accident, you can easily call emergency services.
According to Apple, the call to emergency responders only happens if the specially designed shock detection function detects a serious car accident. This is the case in violent collisions from the front, side or rear or when you roll over.
How does the shock detection function work?
Apple’s devices have a gyroscopic sensor including the high-g accelerometer. With this high-g accelerometer it is possible to register high G-forces. You experience these G-forces in a serious accident. Then your speed changes very quickly in a short time. At that point, the iPhone 14 or the Apple Watch Series 8, SE and Ultra will issue a warning.
As a user, do you not respond to the warning? Then the iPhone or Apple Watch automatically calls the emergency services. However, it appears that the detection of G-forces does not always go well.
Emergency services called without there being an emergency
Where normally the new iPhone 14 and the new series of Apple Watch only contact the emergency services in the event of a serious traffic accident, it appears that this does not always work optimally. According to The Wall Street Journal the G-force is also strong enough to trigger the accelerometer, if you’re on a roller coaster.
Emergency services in the United States have been called several times due to the overactive accident detection feature. The emergency room received a report of a serious accident while the Apple owner was on a roller coaster. This situation has already occurred six times.
Amusement parks warn about Apple function
Several amusement parks in the United States issue a warning for Apple Watches and devices similar to this. This sign asks Apple owners not to take the iPhone 14 or the new series of Apple Watches on the attractions to avoid unnecessary emergency calls.