I believe that only applies to the older, non-GPS enabled phones. The newer ones appear to be able to connect with the E-911 system, or at least be located, without needing cell phone towers. This is my understanding of the system. I am sure that someone (most everyone?) on this forum knows a lot more than I do about the subject; perhaps they would care to chime in. Hell, I have only had a cell phone for four years and still don't know too much about how to use it; I grew up with rotary dials and calling the operator for long-distance.