Are you tired of accidentally triggering the SOS feature on your iPhone and want to learn how to disable it? Look no further! In this blog article, we will provide you with a detailed and comprehensive guide on how to get rid of SOS on your iPhone. Whether you’re an iPhone newbie or a seasoned user, we’ve got you covered!
Understanding the SOS Feature
The SOS feature on your iPhone is a critical safety measure designed to quickly and easily call for emergency assistance when needed. It allows you to rapidly contact emergency services and your designated emergency contacts with just a few clicks or button presses. While this feature can be a lifesaver in genuine emergency situations, accidental activations can be frustrating and disruptive. Understanding how the SOS feature works and the various triggers is essential to effectively disabling it.
How Does the SOS Feature Work?
The SOS feature can be activated in multiple ways, depending on your iPhone model and settings. The most common triggers include clicking the side button rapidly five times, using the emergency SOS slider on the lock screen, or activating SOS via an Apple Watch connected to your iPhone. When the SOS feature is triggered, your iPhone will automatically call emergency services and send a message to your emergency contacts, providing them with your location information.
Why Disable the SOS Feature?
While the SOS feature is undoubtedly a valuable safety tool, accidental activations can lead to unnecessary emergency calls, causing inconvenience for emergency services and potential embarrassment for the user. Disabling the SOS feature can help prevent these accidental activations and provide peace of mind, knowing that you won’t trigger emergency services unintentionally.
Disabling SOS on iPhone
Now that you understand the importance of disabling the SOS feature, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of turning it off on your iPhone. Follow these instructions to ensure that the SOS feature is completely disabled:
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Unlock your iPhone and locate the Settings app on your home screen. The Settings app is represented by a gear icon and is usually found on the first page of your apps.
Step 2: Access the Emergency SOS Settings
Once you’re in the Settings app, scroll down and tap on “Emergency SOS.” This will take you to the Emergency SOS settings menu, where you can customize your SOS preferences.
Step 3: Disable the “Call with Side Button” Option
In the Emergency SOS settings menu, you’ll find an option called “Call with Side Button.” By default, this option is enabled, allowing you to trigger the SOS feature by rapidly clicking the side button on your iPhone. To disable this option, simply toggle the switch to the off position. This will prevent accidental activations of the SOS feature when clicking the side button.
Step 4: Disable the “Auto Call” Option
Another trigger method for the SOS feature is the emergency SOS slider on the lock screen. When this option is enabled, sliding the Emergency SOS slider will automatically call emergency services. To disable this option, go back to the Emergency SOS settings menu and toggle the switch next to “Auto Call” to the off position. This will require additional steps to contact emergency services, reducing the likelihood of accidental calls.
Step 5: Disable “Hold Side Button” on Apple Watch (Optional)
If you have an Apple Watch paired with your iPhone, it’s worth noting that it has its own SOS trigger method. By default, holding the side button on your Apple Watch for a few seconds will activate the SOS feature on your iPhone. To disable this trigger method, open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, navigate to General, and select Emergency SOS. From there, toggle the switch next to “Hold Side Button” to the off position. This will ensure that holding the side button on your Apple Watch won’t trigger the SOS feature on your iPhone.
Customizing SOS Settings
While disabling the SOS feature entirely may not be possible, you can customize the settings to suit your preferences and minimize the chances of accidental activations. Let’s explore some of the options available for customizing your SOS settings:
Changing Side Button Behavior
Aside from disabling the “Call with Side Button” option, you can also modify the behavior of the side button on your iPhone. Instead of triggering the SOS feature, you can set it to perform other functions like taking screenshots, waking the device, or launching Siri. To change the side button behavior, go to Settings > Accessibility > Side Button and choose the desired functionality.
Setting Emergency Contacts
In the Emergency SOS settings menu, you have the option to add emergency contacts. These contacts will be notified when the SOS feature is triggered, providing them with your location information. To add emergency contacts, tap on “Set Up Emergency Contacts in Health” and follow the on-screen instructions. You can also update your emergency contacts in the Health app itself.
Enabling Location Services
To ensure accurate location information is sent to emergency services and your emergency contacts, it’s crucial to have location services enabled on your iPhone. By default, location services are usually enabled, but it’s worth double-checking this setting in the Privacy section of your iPhone’s settings. Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services and make sure it’s turned on. You can also customize location access for individual apps in this menu.
Testing the SOS Feature
Once you’ve customized your SOS settings, it’s recommended to test the feature to ensure it functions as expected. Trigger the SOS feature by using one of the methods mentioned earlier, such as clicking the side button rapidly five times, and verify that emergency services and your designated emergency contacts receive the appropriate notifications. If any issues arise during testing, revisit the previous sections to troubleshoot and make necessary adjustments.
Preventing Accidental SOS Calls
Even with the SOS feature disabled or customized, it’s essential to take additional precautions to prevent accidental activations. Here are some tips to help you avoid unintentional SOS calls:
Use a Protective Case
Investing in a high-quality protective case for your iPhone can help minimize the risk of accidentally triggering the SOS feature. Look for cases that provide a secure grip and have raised edges around the side button to prevent accidental presses.
Disable Siri on Lock Screen
By default, Siri can be accessed on the lock screen, which means you might accidentally activate Siri and trigger the SOS feature. To disable Siri on the lock screen, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode for older iPhones) and toggle off the “Allow Siri When Locked” option. This will ensure that Siri can only be accessed when your iPhone is unlocked.
Be Mindful of Button Presses
Accidental button presses can happen, especially if you’re performing activities that involve repetitive movements. Take care to avoid rapid clicks or long presses on the side button, as these actions can still trigger the SOS feature even with customized settings. Stay conscious of your actions and handle your iPhone with care to minimize the risk of accidental SOS calls.
Educate Family Members and Friends
If you share your iPhone with family members or friends, it’s important to educate them about the SOS feature and its potential consequences. Inform them about the steps you have taken to disable or customize the feature and ask for their cooperation in avoiding accidental activations. This shared awareness can help prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
Using Emergency SOS Responsibly
While disabling or customizing the SOS feature can help prevent accidental activations, it’s important to remember that emergencies can happen. Understanding how to use the Emergency SOS feature responsibly is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Know When to Use Emergency SOS
The Emergency SOS feature should only be used in genuine emergency situations where you require immediate assistance from emergency services. These situations include medical emergencies, accidents, or instances where you feel threatened or unsafe. It’s crucial to exercise good judgment and avoid misusing the SOS feature for non-emergency situations.
Communicate with Emergency Services
When you activate the SOS feature and connect with emergency services, it’s important to clearly communicate your situation and provide accurate information. Remain calm and concise while explaining your emergency to the operator. This will help emergency services assess the situation accurately and provide the necessary assistance.
Follow Local Laws and Regulations
Emergency services and SOS procedures may vary depending on your location. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations governing emergency calls and the use of the SOS feature. Understanding these guidelines will ensure that you use the feature appropriately and avoid any legal repercussions.
Consider Additional Safety Measures
While the SOS feature is a valuable tool, it’s worth exploring additional safety measures to enhance your personal security. This can include using personal safety apps, sharing your location with trusted contacts, or carrying a personal safety device. Research and consider these options based on your individual needs and preferences.
Alternative Emergency Contact Methods
Disabling the SOS feature doesn’t mean you’re left without options in case of an emergency. Your iPhone offers alternative emergency contact methods that can provide additional safety and peace of mind. Let’s explore these options:
Medical ID
Medical ID is a built-in feature on iPhones that allows you to store important medical information and emergency contacts. This information can be accessed even when your iPhone is locked, making it invaluable in emergency situations. To set up your Medical ID, open the Health app, tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner, and select “Medical ID.” Follow the prompts to enter your medical information and emergency contacts.
Emergency Contacts in Health App
In addition to Medical ID, the Health app also allows you to add emergency contacts separately. These contacts will be accessible in the Health app and can be contacted by emergency services if needed. To add emergency contacts in the Health app, go to the Medical ID section, scroll down to “Emergency Contacts,” and tap “Edit.” From there, you can add and manage your emergency contacts.
Third-Party Safety Apps
There are numerous third-party safety apps available in the App Store that offer additional features and functionality for emergencies. These apps can provide services such as sending alerts to designated emergency contacts, sharing your location in real-time, and even activating emergency services with a single tap. Some popular safety apps include “SafeTrek,” “bSafe,” and “Red Panic Button.” Explore these apps and choose one that suits your needs and preferences.
Common SOS Related Issues
While disabling or customizing the SOS feature can significantly reduce accidental activations, you may still encounter some issues or challenges. Let’s explore some common SOS-related problems and their potential solutions:
SOS Feature Not Working
If you find that the SOS feature is not working as expected, it may be due to software or configuration issues. Start by ensuring that you have the latest iOS version installed on your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and check for any available updates. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Updating your iPhone’s software often resolves any software-related glitches that may affect the SOS feature.
Accidental Emergency Calls
Even with customized settings, accidental emergency calls can still occur in certain situations. If you accidentally trigger the SOS feature, remain calm and explain the situation to the emergency operator. Inform them that it was a false alarm and that you don’t require immediate assistance. Cooperate with the operator and follow their instructions to ensure proper resolution of the call.
False Location Information
In some instances, the location information sent to emergency services or your emergency contacts may not be entirely accurate. Factors such as weak GPS signals or incorrect location data can contribute to this issue. If you suspect that the location information is incorrect, inform the emergency operator immediately and provide them with the correct details. Additionally, ensure that your iPhone’s location services are enabled and that you have a stable internet connection to improve the accuracy of location information.
Updating iPhone SOS Software
Regularly updating your iPhone’s software is crucial not only for overall device performance but also for maintaining the functionality of the SOS feature. Software updates often include bug fixes, security enhancements, and improvements to existing features. Here are some steps to ensure that your iPhone’s SOS software is up to date:
Step 1: Check for Updates
Open the Settings app on your iPhone and navigate to General. From there, tap on “Software Update” to check for any available updates. If an update is available, you will see a prompt to download and install it. Make sure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient battery life before initiating the update process.
Step 2: Install the Update
If an update is available, tap on “Download and Install.” Your iPhone will begin downloading the update, and once it’s complete, you will be prompted to install it. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the installation. It’s important to note that installing updates may require your iPhone to restart, so ensure that you save any unsaved work before proceeding.
Step 3: Complete the Update Process
Once the installation is complete, your iPhone will reboot, and you’ll be greeted with the updated software version. It’s recommended to review any new features or changes introduced in the update to familiarize yourself with the latest SOS functionality. Remember to periodically check for new updates and install them to ensure that your iPhone’s SOS software remains up to date.
Exploring SOS Assistance Apps
In addition to the built-in SOS feature on your iPhone, there are numerous third-party apps available in the AppStore that provide additional SOS assistance and safety features. These apps can offer an extra layer of security and peace of mind, especially in emergency situations. Let’s explore some popular SOS assistance apps that you can consider:
SafeTrek
SafeTrek is a widely recognized personal safety app that allows you to discreetly alert emergency services when you feel unsafe or threatened. With SafeTrek, you can simply press and hold the button in the app, and if you release it without entering your PIN, emergency services will be notified of your location and situation. The app also has additional features like a safety profile that can provide important information to responders.
bSafe
bSafe is another highly-rated personal safety app that offers a range of features designed to enhance your personal security. With bSafe, you can set up your own personal safety network of contacts who will be notified in case of emergencies. The app also includes a “Follow Me” feature, which allows your designated contacts to track your location in real-time, ensuring they are aware of your movements and can provide assistance if needed.
Red Panic Button
Red Panic Button is a simple yet effective app that transforms your iPhone into a panic button. With just one tap on the red panic button, the app will send emergency alerts via SMS, email, and social media to your designated emergency contacts. The app also includes your GPS coordinates in the alert, enabling your contacts to locate you quickly. Red Panic Button is a straightforward and reliable option for those seeking a basic SOS assistance app.
Guardly
Guardly is a comprehensive safety app that offers various features to ensure your personal security. Along with emergency SOS alerts, Guardly allows you to create and share safety profiles that include important information like medical conditions or allergies. The app also includes a virtual safety escort feature that tracks your location and notifies your designated contacts if you don’t arrive at your intended destination within a specified time frame.
StaySafe
StaySafe is an app specifically designed for lone workers or individuals who frequently find themselves in potentially risky situations. The app allows you to check in with your designated contacts and provides them with your location information. If you fail to check in within a specified time, StaySafe will automatically alert your contacts and provide them with real-time updates of your location, enabling them to take appropriate action.
These are just a few examples of the many SOS assistance apps available in the App Store. It’s important to research and choose an app that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Remember to read reviews, evaluate the features offered, and ensure that the app has a user-friendly interface that you feel comfortable using in emergency situations.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to further improve your iPhone experience and reduce the chances of accidentally triggering the SOS feature:
Use Guided Access
Guided Access is a useful feature that allows you to lock your iPhone to a specific app or screen. Enabling Guided Access can prevent accidental activations of the SOS feature when you lend your iPhone to someone or when using certain apps that may have SOS triggers. To enable Guided Access, go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access and toggle it on. Once enabled, you can activate Guided Access by triple-clicking the side button or home button (depending on your iPhone model).
Enable Touch ID or Face ID
Enabling Touch ID or Face ID can add an extra layer of security to your iPhone and help prevent unauthorized access or accidental activations. By using biometric authentication, you reduce the reliance on the side button, which is a common trigger for the SOS feature. To set up Touch ID or Face ID, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode for older iPhones) and follow the prompts to add your fingerprints or set up facial recognition.
Practice Emergency Situations
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the steps to follow in case of an emergency. Practice accessing the Emergency SOS feature and making mock emergency calls to ensure that you know how to use it effectively. This practice will help you remain calm and composed during real emergencies, ensuring that you can quickly and efficiently contact the necessary services.
Keep Your iPhone Updated
Regularly updating your iPhone’s operating system and apps is important for overall device performance and security. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can enhance the functionality of the SOS feature. Enable automatic updates in the App Store settings and regularly check for iOS updates to ensure that your iPhone has the latest software versions installed.
Stay Informed about Local Emergency Services
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the emergency services available in your region and their contact numbers. While the SOS feature on your iPhone is designed to connect you with emergency services automatically, it’s always beneficial to have this information readily available. Additionally, learn about any specific procedures or protocols that may be in place for emergency calls in your area.
Share Your Knowledge
Spread the word about the SOS feature and its proper usage to your friends, family, and colleagues. Educate them about how to disable or customize the feature to prevent accidental activations, and encourage them to explore alternative emergency contact methods. By sharing your knowledge, you can help create a safer and more informed community of iPhone users.
In conclusion, you now have a comprehensive understanding of how to get rid of the SOS feature on your iPhone. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can disable or customize the SOS feature to prevent accidental activations. Additionally, we explored alternative emergency contact methods and discussed additional tips and tricks to enhance your iPhone experience. Remember, while disabling the SOS feature can help prevent accidental activations, it’s crucial to use emergency services responsibly and explore other safety measures to ensure your personal security.