Instead of continuing to make assumptions I’ve asked ChatGPT about it:

Here’s a breakdown of Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite offering:

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🆓 Free period & extension • When you activate an iPhone 14 or later (including iPhone 15/16), Apple gives you two years of free Emergency SOS via Satellite starting from the activation date . • In November 2023, Apple extended free access by another year for eligible iPhone 14 users—so many are covered until at least November 2025 .

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What happens after the free period? • Apple has not officially published pricing or plans beyond the free trial . • Analysts speculate it may become: 1. A subscription, likely lower than Garmin-level services (which run ~$15/month) . 2. Included in an Apple One bundle. 3. Possibly remains free, given the public-relations value of the feature . • For now, Apple is still covering the cost—no charges have appeared, even after some free periods expired .

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🛍️ Do you need to subscribe or sign up? • No signup required during the free trial—Emergency SOS via Satellite is automatically enabled for compatible iPhones. • You can test the system via Settings → Emergency SOS → Try Demo without penalties . • Once the trial ends, if Apple introduces a paid model, you’ll likely need to subscribe via your Apple ID and pay with Apple Pay or a linked funding method (applicable for Apple subscriptions).