Tim Hardwick
In iOS 18, Apple has further improved its satellite connectivity options for iPhone users by introducing Messages via Satellite. Keep reading to find out how it works.
Available in the US and Canada for iPhone 14 and later, Messages via Satellite allows users to exchange iMessages and SMS text messages, including emoji and Tapbacks, over satellite connections when traditional networks aren’t available.
Apple uses the infrastructure it set up for Emergency SOS via satellite for this feature, but you don’t have to be in an emergency situation to use it, and the service is currently offered at no extra cost.
When iPhone detects that it’s out of range of cellular or Wi-Fi, it prompts users with an alert offering quick access to satellite services. These include Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Find My, and Messages. Users can also access the feature directly from the Messages app while offline, and iOS provides on-screen directions to help point iPhone to an available satellite.
iMessages sent via satellite are end-to-end encrypted. It’s worth noting, however, that while iMessage functionality is fully supported, SMS capabilities are more limited to prevent abuse by automated systems. Emergency contacts and designated family members can initiate an SMS contact at any time, but for other contacts, the iPhone user must send the first satellite SMS to enable replies.
To get a taste of this potentially life-saving feature, Apple has included a demo mode in iOS 18. You can access this demo by following these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Apps, then tap Messages.
- Scroll down and tap Satellite Connection Demo.
This demo will walk you through the process of establishing a satellite connection and sending messages, providing valuable practice for real-world scenarios and emergencies where this feature could be critical.
While the current version does not support Rich Communication Services (RCS), Apple may well bridge the remaining gap between traditional and satellite communications by expanding the feature's capabilities in a future iOS update.
Tags: Messages, Satellite SOS64 comments
