British drivers could see major motorway changes amid rollout of 'life-saving' technology

With a new iOS 18 update, drivers can now utilise the Apple features and its "robust" satellite services to send messages at times when they do not have mobile phone reception or Wi-Fi- access.

Motorists with an iPhone 14 or later model who have car trouble and no signal can connect with Green Flag using Apple’s Roadside Assistance via satellite feature.

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The breakdown and recovery company said motorists who are in trouble do not even need to be Green Flag customers to get help.

With the advancement of this technology, drivers could soon see the number of emergency roadside call boxes dwindle as more drivers will have the technology on their mobiles.

An iPhone user can request Roadside Assistance in the Messages app by tapping the New Message button and typing "Roadside" in the address field to start a conversation.

They will then be able to request Roadside Assistance. If someone also tries to call 999 and cannot connect, they will have the option to text the emergency services or Green Flag through the satellite option.

Adam Winslow, Chief Executive of Direct Line Group, said: "Reducing risk for motorists and getting them back on the road quickly is at the core of our Green Flag business, which is why we are delighted to offer breakdown services through Apple's Roadside Assistance via satellite.

"Using satellite-enabled iPhone models and Apple's satellite services, we can provide drivers with the reassurance that even when they don't have mobile reception or Wi-Fi access, or are in the most remote of locations, help is at hand."

Data from Green Flag found that one in six UK drivers who have had their car break down or were involved in an accident had no mobile reception to seek help over the last five years.

When they have no mobile reception are often forced to use Emergency Roadside Call boxes with 1,400 calls already being made in Wales and Scotland so far this year.

Last year, almost 3,000 calls were made across the UK, with experts predicting that the total figure for this year is expected to be "significantly higher".

The new satellite technology will also make breakdowns safer for motorists as they won't have to walk along busy motorways and A roads to find their nearest roadside assistance phone.

Users of the new Apple technology have supported the changes to their phones, including in North Carolina and the recent devastation from Hurricane Helene.

Many users of X, formerly known as Twitter, posted that they received a notification, instructing them to point their phones at a satellite, allowing them to send messages after a lack of mobile service.

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One user, Matt Van Swol, commented on the situation, saying: "I've never been more thankful to be an iPhone user.

"Due to a lack of cell service, EVERYONE in Asheville NC right now on iOS 18 has been able to get messages out and in with the Satellite messaging feature. This is literally saving lives."