This small iPhone trick could save your life - and hardly anyone knows about it

The fear that someone might be following you down a dark street or through an empty parking lot can be paralyzing—even when you know you should call for help. But iPhone users have recently rediscovered a hidden feature that can instantly connect them to emergency services.

This option, which remains unknown to many, allows you to summon help discreetly and rapidly—even in situations where you feel threatened and cannot openly take your phone out or type in a passcode.

The Side Button Shortcut

All you have to do is quickly press the side button five times to activate the "Emergency SOS" mode. This action automatically dials local emergency services and shares your location with both first responders and the emergency contacts you have designated in your settings.

This life-saving feature was originally introduced for the Apple Watch and arrived on iPhones with iOS 11. Recently, it has surged in popularity on TikTok and other social platforms, with users hailing it as a potential life-changer. One user, C.J. Bathgate, shared a video explaining how this trick made her feel safe when she suspected someone was following her.

Another creator highlighted the feature on a recent podcast, noting that it provides peace of mind regarding one of her greatest fears: personal safety. "When you press the power button on the iPhone this way, it enters an emergency response system," the user explained. "If you don't hit cancel, it automatically dials the police." Once the call ends, the iPhone sends a text message to your emergency contacts, notifying them that you have contacted emergency services. The message includes your current location and provides real-time updates if your position changes while in SOS mode.

The "Old iPhone" Trick

Do you have an old, functioning phone lying around the house? Charge it, place it in a plastic bag to protect it from moisture, and take it with you the next time you head to the beach or out into nature. You don't even need an active SIM card—by law, any mobile phone can still place emergency calls to the police.

Emergency SOS via Satellite

Apple expanded its emergency toolkit in 2022 with the "Emergency SOS via Satellite" service for users of iPhone 14 and newer models. This feature allows you to send a distress message even when you are outside the range of cellular service or Wi-Fi. Messages can be sent in approximately 15 seconds if the phone has a clear view of the sky, though obstacles like mountains or heavy tree cover may slow the connection.

The satellite service operates via 24 Globalstar satellites. Users are guided to point their iPhone toward the sky to connect to a satellite, and the message is then routed to the nearest emergency dispatch center.

How to Set It Up

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap Emergency SOS.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to toggle on "Call with 5 Presses."

4. Ensure your Medical ID is set up and your emergency contacts are listed.

This small, often-overlooked iPhone feature could be the difference between life and death—and all it takes is five quick clicks of the side button to activate it.

Make sure to share this tip with everyone you know—especially the trick about carrying an old, charged phone without a SIM card. It’s a simple but brilliant way to add an extra layer of protection for yourself and your loved ones.