Becoming First SOS Subscription Accessible Through iPhone’s New Satellite Messaging Capabilities
SUNRISE, FLA. – Jan. 21, 2025 – Overwatch x Rescue(OxR), the emergency SOS subscription service by FocusPoint International–an industry leader in the Emergency Response as a Service (ERaaS), today announced the launch of its direct-to-consumer (DTC) subscription service, becoming the first SOS plan to take advantage of iPhone’s new satellite messaging capabilities. This move also extends OxR’s coverage to Garmin inReach Satellite Messaging and ZOLEO devices, empowering outdoor enthusiasts with comprehensive, real-time emergency support.
Until now, OxR’s lifesaving services were offered through specific satellite communicators. By leveraging advances in the satellite direct-to-device market, OxR unbundles its service from proprietary hardware, making it accessible to anyone whose device can connect via satellite and deliver SMS messages. Notably, OxR is the first and only SOS subscription service that can be accessed through the iPhone messaging app for users of iPhone 14, 15, or 16 running iOS 18 in satellite messaging mode in the U.S. and Canada.
“The direct-to-consumer launch doesn’t just expand the availability of Overwatch x Rescue; it reinforces our mission to give outdoor enthusiasts the tools and confidence to be more comfortable outside their comfort zone,” said Greg Pearson, founder and CEO of FocusPoint International.
“By separating our plan from device dependency, we’re democratizing access to critical emergency support, reducing–and often eliminating– the financial exposure tied to a rescue, and redefining how people stay safe in remote environments,” added Pearson.
Seamless iPhone Integration:
- Upon purchasing the OxR subscription plan, iPhone users will receive access to an Apple Shortcut that enables them to request emergency assistance from OxR’s Crisis Response Center (CRC) in just two clicks. This process transmits critical details and location instantly, ensuring the fastest possible response times when every second matters.
- Subscribers can also share their location and critical details with OxR’s CRC using Apple Maps’ share location feature combined with iMessage, enabled by Apple’s satellite messaging.1 Detailed instructions and FAQs will guide OxR subscribers through setup, device registration, shortcut download and manual requests via Apple Maps or iMessage.
Key Features and Benefits
- Comprehensive Emergency Support: OxR provides 24/7 multilingual emergency assistance, covering medical evacuations to the nearest appropriate facility, search and rescue coordination, repatriation to a home hospital of record (including commercial flights with a medical escort), visitation by a family member/friend if hospitalized for longer than 3 days, return of dependent child, and assistance during safety-related incidents, such as natural disasters, terrorism events, civil unrest and more.
- Financial Protection: The average air ambulance trip in the U.S. costs $36,400.2 With OxR, subscribers avoid these out-of-pocket expenses and benefit from a service-guaranteed response—no claims, no deductibles, or reimbursement hassles. The plan also has no monetary limit on claims, and covers high-altitude activities.
- Support for Up to Three Devices: While OxR’s availability via satellite enabled iPhones marks an industry first, the service also supports any device that can send and receive SMS via Wi-Fi/cellular or satellite networks, now including Garmin inReach Satellite Messaging Devices, and the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator. Subscribers can link up to three devices per account, ensuring continuous coverage even if one device fails.
In a market where most SOS services merely connect users to emergency responders and disengage, OxR stays engaged throughout the entire rescue. Its CRC—composed largely of former U.S. military, medical staff, first responders, and law enforcement—provides real-time advice, dispatch coordination, and confirms that emergency services reach the subscriber’s location, ensuring they are taken back to safety, and receive the necessary medical care. Unlike insurance-based models, OxR eliminates financial caps and complicated claim processes, offering an affordable $79.99 annual subscription that prioritizes safety and satisfaction.
“OxR’s commitment to innovation extends beyond this DTC launch,” said Peter Martin, executive chairman of FocusPoint International.
“Our upcoming collaborations with partners of the Mobile Satellite Services Association and key telecom stakeholders will expand both our device compatibility and geographical coverage, reaffirming our promise to empower more adventurers in more places around the globe.”
For more information or to subscribe, visit overwatchxrescue.com.
About Overwatch x Rescue
Overwatch x Rescue™ (OxR) is a SOS subscription service designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking confidence and peace of mind while exploring. Offering 24/7 live rescue coordination, OxR minimizes—and often eliminates—the financial and logistical stress of rescue operations beyond traditional mobile network coverage, ensuring coverage no matter where the adventure leads.
The Overwatch x Rescue plan provides unmatched flexibility, with no altitude, or activity restrictions, ensuring full coverage of coordinated emergency services. OxR’s team of highly trained experts is always prepared to coordinate everything from search and rescue operations to medical evacuations, allowing adventurers to focus on their journey—not the risks.
With over 15,000 rescues coordinated in more than 220+ countries and territories, Overwatch x Rescue has saved adventurers millions in medical and rescue costs. Backed by veteran leadership, an unwavering commitment to safety, and strategic partnerships with global satellite technology innovators, Overwatch x Rescue delivers seamless, reliable support—empowering adventurers to explore with confidence and peace of mind.
For more information, visit www.overwatchxrescue.com or follow us on social media @overwatchxrescue
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Notes to editors:
1This process does not replace or supersede Apple’s native satellite SOS feature. Requesting emergency assistance and accessing the life-savings benefits of Overwatch x Rescue via satellite text messaging is a separate and distinct service from the Apple SOS feature.
2 Source: Government Accountability Office
