In an incredible turn of events, a lost iPhone that submerged underwater for four days was returned to its owner, demonstrating the life-saving potential of Apple’s Medical ID feature. The incident unfolded at Maresias beach in São Paulo, Brazil, where Thiago Itagaki was enjoying a swim and stumbled upon a seemingly abandoned device lying three meters beneath the surface, about 10 meters from the shore.
Despite his initial efforts, Itagaki’s attempts to locate the phone’s owner through inquiries on the beach were futile. The device, completely out of battery and encased with three credit cards, offered no clues as to who it belonged to, as no one present reported having lost an iPhone. However, Itagaki’s patience paid off when he decided to dry the phone and charge it, discovering that it was still operational.
With the phone working again, Itagaki cleverly utilized the Medical ID feature that can be accessed without needing a password. Users can set up their Medical ID on their iPhones to allow first responders or good Samaritans access to vital health information and emergency contacts in case of an emergency. It is designed to provide essential details such as allergies, blood type, and key emergency contacts.
This particular instance proved the utility of the feature. Upon diving into the Medical ID, Itagaki called the contact labeled as “Love,” eventually reaching the owner of the phone. It turned out that the couple, who are residents of São Paulo, had lost their phone on New Year’s Eve, unaware that it had been lost in the sea for four days while they were not in the area.
The owner expressed immense gratitude towards Itagaki for his efforts, and the story quickly gained attention online, amassing thousands of likes on Threads. “People are losing phones in very unexpected places,” Itagaki remarked, reflecting on the wider implications of his find.
Since the release of the iPhone 7, Apple has included water resistance technology in its devices, which can withstand certain depths for limited durations. However, this story serves as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of maintaining an updated Medical ID. Users are encouraged to ensure their emergency contacts are accurate and current. To access the Medical ID on your iPhone, simply open the Health app and tap on your profile picture in the upper section of the screen.
In a world where technology intersects with real-life scenarios, this incident highlights how a small feature can lead to significant outcomes, showcasing humanity’s capacity for kindness and ingenuity in unexpected situations.
