Apple’s new SOS feature will come in handy in emergency situations

Apple released the iOS 10.2 public beta 2 on Monday, a week after the initial 10.2 beta that packs more than just performance improvements or bug fixes. Besides a new TV app and a revamped Music app, the chief among the new changes in the latest release is the all-new SOS emergency call feature.

Once enabled, the new SOS function connects the phone automatically with emergency services upon pressing the home button five times.

Pressing the home button triggers a short countdown timer emitting a siren-like noise. Once the countdown reaches zero, it’ll connect the call to 911 or your region-specific emergency number.

Apple's release notes state that the SOS function is available in the United States and a number of countries including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, Russia, Spain and the UK.

Though iPhones already have emergency call feature that can be put to use through lock screen, SOS would add a simpler option for vulnerable callers, or those under threat, to make the call.

Developers that have the iOS 10.2 Beta 2 update already have the feature. Though there’s no word on when it’ll roll out to the public, we hope it happens soon.