Apple recently released a much-anticipated car crash detection feature for the iPhone and Apple Watch, designed to help save lives in dangerous car accidents. The update, however, has come with some issues, with some users reporting false positive readings.
How the Apple Car Crash Detection Feature Is Supposed to Work and How It is Supposed to Help Users
According to the story by Giz China, the alarm has caused some confusion for emergency services. With false alarms becoming more frequent, Apple is under pressure to update and tweak the feature to reduce false readings and ensure that those in need receive the help they need promptly and accurately.
The car crash detection feature uses several components to detect a crash, including motion sensors, a microphone, a barometer, GPS, CarPlay, and Bluetooth. These components work together to create seamless and accurate car crash detection.
How the Feature is Designed to Give Reports Based on Data
The motion sensors utilize a three-axis gyroscope and a high-gravity accelerometer that can sample motion more than 3000 times per second. Meanwhile, the microphone is designed to detect loud sound levels that could indicate a crash, and if the airbags deploy with the windows closed, the barometer can recognize the change in air pressure.
The GPS relays speed readings before a crash and sudden lack of motion. CarPlay and Bluetooth help detect driving and ensure that the accident detection features kick in immediately. When a severe car crash is detected, the feature will interact with either an Apple Watch (if worn) or your iPhone, and an alert will appear for 10 seconds.
Some Users are Reporting False Alarms from the Apple Feature
The user is given the option to call for help or to dismiss the alert. However, if no action is taken, the device engages in a 10-second countdown before automatically sending out an emergency call, as also noted in an article by My Drivers.
An audio message will then play on a loop with five seconds of silence, notifying emergency services of the crash and providing them with an estimated location. Some users have reported that Apple's car crash detection feature may be generating false alarms, signaling a need for an update.
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Apple is Now Trying to Fix the Feature to Avoid False Reports
In response to the issue, Apple has already released a software update package in hopes of resolving the concern. As the Search and Rescue Association of Columbia's Dwight Yochim has noted, the organization has already responded to multiple false alarms, which have taken up much-needed rescue resources. Hopefully, the update will prove successful in lowering false readings.
The Apple car crash detection feature is designed to provide a necessary layer of support should an accident occur. Despite false readings that have put some strain on rescue resources, the feature has proven invaluable in saving lives and providing help when it matters most.
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