Galaxy Phones Surpass iPhone in Critical Emergency Features

A new government test reveals a significant delay in how iPhones transmit emergency location data in South Korea. The findings show iPhones can take nearly 20 seconds to share a caller’s location with first responders. This delay is about ten times longer than the response from Samsung Galaxy phones.

The Korea Communications Commission conducted the tests in 2024. The results have ignited a public debate over public safety and smartphone technology. The issue gained urgency after a recent stabbing incident where police struggled to locate an iPhone user.

Speed and Precision Gap Highlights Divergent Tech Approaches

According to the test results, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra transmitted data in just 1.4 to 2.4 seconds. It provided a caller’s location with an accuracy of 13 to 25 meters. This data was sent using a combination of base station, GPS, and Wi-Fi signals.

In stark contrast, the tested iPhones took an average of 20 seconds to respond. Their location data was also less precise, relying solely on GPS and Wi-Fi. This slower, less accurate system could critically impact emergency response times during life-threatening situations.

Apple’s Global Policy Clashes with Local Safety Standards

Apple has declined requests from Korean authorities to modify its emergency location system. The company cites its global privacy policy and security standards. It uses its own proprietary Hybridized Emergency Location (HELO) system worldwide.

Apple justifies the delay as a necessary trade-off between speed and location precision. The company also limits emergency data sharing to just five minutes after an emergency call is placed. It states that extending this window could pose battery drain and potential security risks.

This stance has created a direct conflict with South Korea’s push for faster, more reliable emergency services. The debate centers on whether global tech standards should adapt to meet specific national safety requirements.

The discovery of the iPhone emergency location delay has raised critical questions about the balance between universal design and localized public safety needs.

Thought you’d like to know

How long does it take for an iPhone to share location in an emergency?

Recent tests in South Korea showed iPhones took around 20 seconds to transmit emergency location data. This is significantly slower than some rival devices. The delay is due to Apple’s specific technical approach to location finding.

Why is Apple’s emergency location system different?

Apple uses its own global Hybridized Emergency Location (HELO) system. The company has stated that altering this system for one country goes against its global policy. It also cites user privacy and device security as key reasons for its design.

Which Samsung phone was tested against the iPhone?

The Korea Communications Commission tested the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It transmitted location data in under 2.5 seconds with high accuracy. The test highlighted a major performance gap between the two brands in this specific scenario.

What was the real-world impact of this delay?

The issue came to light after a stabbing incident in Seoul. Reports indicate police took 20 minutes to locate an emergency caller who used an iPhone. This event intensified scrutiny on the technical limitations for public safety.

Does Apple limit how long it shares emergency data?

Yes. iPhones stop sharing data with emergency services just five minutes after the call ends. Apple states this limit helps prevent potential battery drain and protects against unauthorized access to location data.