Crash Detection is on by default on supported devices. On an iPhone, open Settings > Emergency SOS and check Call After Severe Crash; on Apple Watch, open Settings > SOS > Crash Detection and check the same control. Apple lists the compatible devices and settings, and its Apple Watch guide gives the on-watch steps.

Check that your device is compatible

Crash Detection works on iPhone 14 or later with iOS 16 or later. On Apple Watch, Apple lists Apple Watch Series 8 or later, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), and Apple Watch Ultra or later, with watchOS 9 or later.

Check Crash Detection on iPhone

  1. Open Settings. This is where you can check the feature’s status.
  2. Tap Emergency SOS.
  3. Check that Call After Severe Crash is on. Apple says Crash Detection is enabled by default on supported devices; this switch lets you confirm its current setting.

Check Crash Detection on Apple Watch

  1. Open Settings on the watch.
  2. Tap SOS, then Crash Detection.
  3. Check that Call After Severe Crash is on.

What happens before an automatic call

After a severe crash is detected, the device sounds an alarm and displays an alert. If you respond, you can call emergency services or dismiss the alert. If you do not respond, Apple describes a 10-second alert followed by a separate 30-second countdown. The automatic call follows that countdown, making the total 40 seconds from the initial alert if you take no action.

Calls and emergency contacts have requirements

An emergency call needs cellular service or Wi-Fi calling with internet access from the Apple Watch or a nearby iPhone. If an iPhone’s cellular connection fails, a compatible Apple Watch with its own working cellular service can provide a call route; service still depends on the carrier and network at that location. iPhone 14 or later may also use Emergency SOS via satellite where the service is available.

To share a crash notification and location with emergency contacts, set up your contacts and Medical ID in the Health app. Apple says contacts may not receive the notification if Messages is deleted or is not the selected messaging app.

Apple designs Crash Detection for severe car crashes, including front, side and rear impacts and rollovers. It cannot detect every car crash.