Traditional medical alert devices cost $30–50/month, require specialized hardware, and often fail in exactly the scenarios they're designed for — no cellular signal, low battery on the pendant, or the user not wearing the device. Smartphone-based alternatives typically require internet connectivity, which isn't guaranteed during emergencies in rural or poorly-covered areas.
The Novaq Solution
Novaq's SOS is built into the app seniors already carry — their phone. One tap sends SMS alerts (via Twilio) with precise GPS coordinates to all emergency contacts. The critical difference: it works offline. If there's no connectivity, the SOS is queued in encrypted local storage and automatically transmitted the moment connection returns. A 5-minute cooldown and 3-per-month limit prevent accidental triggers.
Key Capabilities
One-Tap Emergency
Large, accessible SOS button on the home screen. Long-press with haptic confirmation prevents accidental triggers.
GPS Location Sharing
Every SOS includes precise GPS coordinates so contacts know exactly where help is needed.
Offline Resilience
No internet? No problem. SOS messages queue locally and auto-send when connectivity returns.
SMS via Twilio
Uses carrier SMS — doesn't depend on WhatsApp, Signal, or any app the recipient needs installed.
Smart Rate Limiting
3 SOS alerts per 30 days with 5-minute cooldown prevents misuse while ensuring availability for real emergencies.
Instant Dashboard Alerts
SOS events appear in real-time on the NovaSphere family dashboard and B2B healthcare dashboard simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SOS feature cost extra?
The SOS feature is part of Novaq at completely free. There are no additional per-use charges for emergency alerts. All features are included at no cost — no subscriptions, no hidden fees.
What happens if my parent triggers SOS by accident?
Novaq includes multiple safeguards: a long-press requirement with haptic feedback, a countdown before sending, and rate limiting (3 per 30 days, 5-minute cooldown). Accidentally triggered SOS alerts can be quickly communicated to contacts.
Does the SOS work internationally?
Yes, as long as the phone has any form of connectivity (cellular, WiFi). SMS delivery depends on the recipient's carrier, but Twilio supports global delivery to 200+ countries.
How is this different from a medical alert pendant?
No monthly hardware fees ($0 vs $30-50/mo), no separate device to remember, no charging dock, works from the phone they already carry, includes GPS (many pendants don't), and has offline queueing capability.