Enabling satellite SOS on Hong Kong version purchased in the UK

After using android for 12 years I finally switched to an iphone 14 pro max after seeing the new satellite SOS function, I travel a lot and it might save my life one day, not a single store had any iphones in stock so I purchased one from a 3rd party website, turns out it's the dual sim hong kong version...and turns out that the life saving satellite SOS isn't available on phones purchased in HK (even though it was purchased in the UK), also the website doesn't say anything that the Find My app won't work on the HK version (just says not available based on region, implying that if you're in a country that supports it, you can use it, doesn't say anything about not being avaible on HK version regardless of region) yet my phone doesn't have that option (iOS 16.2) and would be nice for my family to know where I am in case I go missing.


Considering my iphone was purchased and used in the UK and that I am a UK resident, isn't there any way to activate the satellite function in the "Find My" app and the Emergency SOS? (I know it has the same satellite capable X65 chip and also in the past apple dissabled the shutter sound for Japanese Iphones that were no longer in Japan).


Posted on Jan 19, 2023 11:15 AM

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Jan 21, 2023 4:15 PM in response to JasonTravels

Hi JasonTravels,


Thanks for contacting Apple Support Communities!


We understand that you're unable to use Emergency SOS via satellite on your iPhone 14 which is a Hong Kong version of the iPhone.


If the iPhone originated in Hong Kong, it doesn't include the hardware necessary to enable Emergency SOS via satellite as outlined here: Use Emergency SOS via satellite on your iPhone 14 - Apple Support

"Emergency SOS via satellite availability

To use Emergency SOS via satellite (or share your location via satellite):

  • You need iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro with iOS 16.1 or later.
  • You also need to be in a place with no cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.
  • Emergency SOS via satellite is available in the U.S., Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, and the U.K.3
  • International travelers who visit a country or region where Emergency SOS via satellite is available can use the feature while visiting, except if they bought their phone in China mainland, Hong Kong, or Macao. Emergency SOS via satellite isn't offered on iPhone models purchased in China mainland, Hong Kong, or Macao.
  • Satellite connection might not work in places above 62° latitude, such as northern parts of Canada and Alaska."


If you're still within the return period of returning your iPhone, you may consider doing so. If you purchase your iPhone from an Apple Store or via an Apple Authorized Reseller in your country, this will ensure that the iPhone includes the hardware necessary to use Emergency SOS via satellite.


Take care!


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Enabling satellite SOS on Hong Kong version purchased in the UK

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