Australians are being urged to update their iPhone software as they could be left without access to emergency services in the event of a natural disaster.
Apple has issued new advice to users after some older mobile phones were unable to make Triple-O calls during extreme weather conditions.
In December, a “technical glitch” prevented iPhone 12 users from contacting emergency service providers.
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“Australia’s mobile operators continue to improve emergency call support on their networks. This follows previous incidents, including a technical glitch that prevented some older mobile phones from making emergency (Triple-0) calls,” Apple said on its support page.
“This is affecting some Australians in regional areas who are trying to make emergency calls when their primary mobile network is unavailable, even if an alternative network is available, and they have to connect the call.
“Mobile operators are taking steps to mitigate future problems.”
The tech giant said that in “rare cases” where this situation reoccurs, some mobile phones may still experience the same pre-Triple-0 issue through an available alternative network.
Apple has listed the following iPhones that require the update, including the first and second generation iPhone SE, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone. 12 Pro Max.
The company also issued an update alert for Apple Watch users with call-enabled devices, including the SE 2, Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, Series 9, Series 10, Ultra, and Ultra 2.
The iOS 26.2.1 update should fix the technical issues.
Meanwhile, Victoria is facing a severe climate crisis, with an out-of-control bushfire forcing residents to flee their homes and unprecedented heatwaves adding to the disaster.
At least three homes have been lost in a devastating fire in the Otways in south-west Victoria, although it is unclear whether they were primary residences or holiday homes.
More than 50,000 homes were without power on Tuesday night after the heat wave took its toll on the power grid.
