This 26-year-old diver from Puducherry, India, owes his life to the technology in his Apple Watch Ultra. The story is quite chilling.
An Experienced Diver Faces Unexpected Danger
In the summer of 2023, Kshitij Zodape, a 26-year-old experienced diver, sets out to dive in Puducherry, a renowned spot on the southeast coast of India. He begins his descent, equipped with his brand-new Apple Watch Ultra. However, despite his experience, the unexpected happens. At about 36 meters deep, Kshitij finds himself in a situation that could turn tragic.
An Equipment Failure That Changes Everything
What was supposed to be a peaceful exploration suddenly turns into a dire emergency. Kshitij’s lead weight belt suddenly comes undone. Without this belt, he cannot maintain stability or control his ascent to the surface. Thrown off balance, Kshitij is propelled upward at a dangerous speed. This is one of the most feared situations in diving, as it exposes the body to massive risks, especially severe lung injuries.
The Apple Watch Ultra Activates an Alert
Fortunately, Kshitij’s Apple Watch Ultra plays an unexpected role. Thanks to its sensors, the watch instantly detects the anomaly in his ascent. It immediately displays warnings on its screen, complete with sound alerts and strong vibrations. As soon as the ascent speed crosses a critical threshold, the watch triggers a rescue siren, specifically designed for underwater emergencies.
Rapid Intervention Thanks to Technology
The automatic activation of the siren does not go unnoticed. An instructor, alerted by the signal, reacts immediately. This quick response proves decisive for Kshitij’s survival. The instructor manages to reach him and stabilize the situation before complications become irreversible. With limited communication underwater, the watch’s alerts were crucial for coordinating the rescue.
The Psychological Impact and Gratitude After the Accident
After this incident, Kshitij Zodape expressed profound gratitude not only to those present but also to the designers of the Apple Watch Ultra. He publicly praised the effectiveness of this device that literally saved his life. He emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, regardless of one’s experience level. This accident remains etched in his memory as a reminder that total mastery of risks in diving does not exist. His public acknowledgment of Apple’s team highlights the growing importance of connected technologies in ensuring safety during extreme activities. However, he also reinforces the message that, despite all the smart tools available, human caution remains irreplaceable.
