A sharp suit. A beautiful car. A phone that might do more than organise your next meeting. Phone crash detection could help you call for assistance after a severe collision.
Our VIP crash-test dummy has his priorities sorted. But behind the sunglasses is a serious question: could your phone call for help if you couldn’t?
Built-in phone crash detection can help connect you to emergency services after a severe car accident. Whether you’re travelling between engagements or taking your favourite classic out for a Sunday drive, it’s worth knowing what your handset can do.
How does phone crash detection work?
On compatible phones, sensors help identify a possible severe collision. The phone raises an alert, giving you a chance to respond. If you don’t respond, it can attempt to call emergency services.
The features available depend on your phone, software and location.
iPhone: Apple’s Crash Detection is available on iPhone 14 and later and is switched on by default. Check Settings → Emergency SOS → Call After Severe Crash. You can also add emergency contacts and Medical ID information in the Health app.
Google Pixel: Car Crash Detection is available in the UK on Pixel 4a and later, including Fold. Open the Personal Safety app → Features → Car Crash Detection, then follow the setup instructions and grant the required permissions. A SIM is required.
Samsung Galaxy: Galaxy phones offer manually triggered emergency SOS features, with options varying by model and software. These should be checked separately; an SOS shortcut does not mean your phone automatically detects a car crash.
Vintage motors, modern technology
You can enjoy a classic car while carrying a compatible modern phone with emergency features.
Phone crash detection operates through the handset. It doesn’t add an integrated SOS system to your vehicle, but it may offer another way to call for help.
A few minutes before your next journey
Check your phone’s supported features, review your emergency contacts and keep your medical information current.
Not sure where to start? Follow our guide to adding emergency contacts and medical information to your phone.
Crash detection cannot identify every accident, and an emergency call may fail if a suitable connection is unavailable. If you can call for help yourself, do so.
Leave the crash testing to the dummy. Get to know your phone before you need it.
For a personal conversation about your next handset, call Nortelco on 01969 625035 or email info@nortelco.co.uk.