A group of six skiers found themselves stranded following an avalanche near Lake Tahoe on Tuesday. In a twist of fate, it was an Apple feature that played a crucial role in their rescue, in the very location that inspired the latest Mac operating system. Interestingly, it was the iPhone, not the Mac, that proved to be a lifeline for the group. The Emergency SOS via satellite feature on the iPhone allowed the survivors to connect with emergency responders and provide vital information about their location using an emergency beacon - a Garmin inReach. "One of my personnel was communicating with one of the guides over a four-hour period, giving information back to the Nevada sheriff’s office and coordinating what rescues could be permitted." Don O’Keefe, California’s Office of Emergency Services The group of six skiers were the fortunate survivors out of a larger group of 15 caught in the avalanche. Tragically, eight were buried by the snow and debris, and one remains missing and presumed dead. The group was on a three-day trip through the Sierra Nevada mountains, led by Blackbird Mountain Guides. Blackbird Mountain Guides expressed profound sadness over the loss of their clients and team members, calling it a tragic event. The company is providing support to the affected families and team members during this difficult time. Although the specific iPhone model used in the rescue is not mentioned, the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature is available on newer models, including the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. Apple has made these satellite features free for two years with the purchase of a compatible device, and has extended the offer multiple times. Given the critical role played by the Emergency SOS via satellite feature, it is possible that Apple will continue to offer it for an extended period. The company has not disclosed any plans to charge for these satellite services, but it remains a valuable resource for emergency situations.
