RACV (Royal Automobile Club of Victoria) says it will offer roadside support to iPhone users when outside mobile coverage using the iPhone’s satellite communications capability.
RACV says that if users have car trouble in areas without mobile or Wi-Fi coverage, they will have access to a tool with a short questionnaire that captures key details and sends the information via satellite so an RACV agent can message the driver directly and dispatch help to their location. Once a request is submitted, membership will be verified for eligible users, while non-members can still access services on a paid basis.
RACV Executive General Manager Insurance and Roadside Phil Turnbull says, “This innovation extends that safety net further than ever before. Australia is a vast country, and a breakdown in a remote area without mobile reception can be incredibly stressful. Apple’s satellite feature is a game-changer – this means Australians who would previously have been unreachable can now connect with RACV and get the support they need, when they need it most.”
It’s important to note that Roadside Assistance is only available to vehicles located on or near a public road. Off-road recovery is not provided. Satellite comms require a clear line of sight to the satellite and can be interrupted by trees, hills and other obstructions. You’ll need an iPhone 14 or later to access this service.
When a user has car trouble and cellular and WiFi are not available, they will be guided through a short questionnaire that captures key details of their situation. They are then guided to connect to a satellite and transmit this information to RACV, where a roadside assistance agent will follow up on their request.
This feature builds on Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite, which launched in Australia in 2023, and allows iPhone users to connect with emergency services when outside of mobile networks and Wi-Fi.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.