Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Mobile app

General

• In what way is the iRega App different to standard GPS devices?
  When the alarm is raised using the iRega App, the coordinates of the caller’s current position are transmitted directly to Rega’s Operations Centre. The flight coordinator sees this position directly on the map on his screen, which enables him to mobilise the necessary rescue services more efficiently. In addition, the automatic transfer of data prevents errors from occurring, which can otherwise arise when giving coordinate data verbally in a stress situation.

   

• Is Rega’s mobile app also available for Android Smartphones?
  Yes. In the Android Market, the Rega app can be downloaded under www.androiden.rega.ch. It can be used with Android smartphones running a 2.1 or newer operating system.

   

• Is the iRega App also planned for use with other operating systems (e.g. Windows Phone)?
  At the present time, no other versions of our application are planned.

   

Installation

• What software do I need to be able to install iRega on my iPhone/Android phone?
  iPhone: The Rega app will work on iPhones running iOS 4.0 or above. If you have an older version, you first need to download an update onto your iPhone via your computer.
  
  Android: For Android smartphones, a 2.1 operating system or more recent version is required. If you have an older version, you should ask your phone provider if your smartphone can be upgraded.
  

   

• I can’t find the application in my App Store/Android Market under the keyword "Rega". Why is that?
  The application was tested for use with the Swiss mobile network and is not able to cover all roaming possibilities. Consequently, it is not available in foreign app stores/markets mainly due to technical reasons.
  
  In order to nevertheless download the app for your iPhone, you need to open a separate account in the Swiss App Store. For this, you require a Swiss address (the address of your holiday or hotel apartment will suffice) and a Swiss means of payment (Swiss credit card or an iTunes card purchased in Switzerland).
  
  For the Android Market, you can circumvent this by placing a Swiss SIM card in your smartphone and then download the app.
  
  However, you must be aware that Rega has not carried out tests for mobile phones operating over foreign providers, so you should be sure to use the test alarm function.

   

• Do I have to enter all my personal data under "Profile" in order for the application to work?
  The data that you enter is very helpful for our Operations Centre – but it is not essential to be able to use the alarm function. However, we recommend that you at least enter your mobile phone number.

   

• When entering my Rega Patronage data on my iPhone, the "e-mail" field is too short for my e-mail address. What should I do?
  The latest update of the iPhone app (Version 1.0.1) has more space for characters to be entered. In order to download the latest version of iRega, open the App Store and select "Updates".

   

• Why am I not able to use all the Rega app functions on my iPod Touch/iPad or Android tablet?
  When the alarm is raised using the Rega app, a telephone connection is set up with Rega’s Operations Centre. This takes place via the mobile phone network. However, it is not possible to telephone over the mobile network using an iPod/iPad/Android tablet; consequently, the alarm function does not work on these devices.

   

Raising the alarm

• What happens when I initiate the test alarm?
  The test alarm is a one-way connection check; consequently, it does not initiate an emergency call at our Operations Centre. As soon as the test alarm has been successfully transmitted, you will receive an automatic voice message. We will also send you a confirmation by SMS.

   

• Does the application also work when I only have very weak reception or even none at all?
  In order for an alarm call to be initiated, at least a minimal connection with a mobile network is necessary. In the absence of any network coverage at all, it is not possible to raise the alarm and thus it is also not possible to contact the Operations Centre by telephone.
  
  If reception is poor and no data network is available, the app will transmit the coordinates by SMS. However, in this case, too, a rescue will only be initiated after the Operations Centre has been contacted by telephone.

   

Location function

• The location function in my app doesn’t work or is very inaccurate. What could be the reason for this?
  First of all, the location function needs to be enabled in your phone settings. To ensure that this function will work reliably in the event of an emergency, it is advisable to use it regularly. If you are, for example, inside a building or a cave, the GPS signal of your mobile phone cannot be received. If possible, you should change your location and initiate the alarm outside in the open air.

   

Further information

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