Verizon users get access to $4.99 iPhone roadside assistance plan

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Stranded with no signal? Not a problem if you’re rocking an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15.

Apple’s latest trick lets these devices scream for help from the cosmos, connecting you to roadside assistance via satellite—even when you’re off the grid.

Yup, iOS 17.2 is turning your iPhone into a distress beacon that works where your carrier’s bars don’t, reports MacSources.

This is in addition to the emergency services calling functionality built into any iPhone.

iPhone users on Verizon can use Messages to get roadside assistance

Previously, Apple had partnered with AAA to offer two years of free SOS signals for iPhone owners. However, the latest update has expanded this capability by collaborating with Verizon as well.

If you’ve got a Verizon SIM, you can now tap into their roadside rescue for a monthly fee or a one-time service charge.

It’s $4.99 per month per line, which is substantially cheaper than the service charges which include towing at $154, tire changing at $98, or jump starting at $92.

And in case you’re wondering how to make that satellite connection, Apple’s Support page lays it all out. If you’re looking to save some time, we outlined them below:

Something to keep in mind: you will need to have iOS 17.2 installed on your device for any of this to work.

Also, while Apple has been generous, partnering with AAA to offer a two-year, no-charge bat signal for new iPhone 14 and 15 owners (and throwing an extra year for the early adopters), remember, the tow truck’s not on the house.

So, there you have it. Apple’s giving you one more reason to stay in their ecosystem—because who else has your back when you’re out of touch, literally?

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Google Messages’ satellite texting may cover over 150 countries 
• Apple’s SOS via Satellite feature saves stranded Alaska man
• An upcoming Apple Watch Pro could feature satellite connectivity
• NASA is literally going to fling satellites into space

Kevin Raposo

Kevin is KnowTechie's founder and executive editor. With over 15 years of blogging experience in the tech industry, Kevin has transformed what was once a passion project into a full-blown tech news publication. Shoot him an email at kevin@knowtechie.com.