How to link your iPhone to a satellite to send messages.
If you have unexpectedly lost service, this iPhone feature allows you to stay connected with friends and family.
With the unexpected loss of signal, owners of an iPhone 14 or later models can communicate with friends and family thanks to a feature that allows them to send messages via satellite when there is no service. This advancement is especially useful in network blackouts, natural disasters, or when in remote locations.
iPhones running iOS 18 have the capability to connect to a satellite service, enabling non-urgent messages to be sent via iMessage and SMS. Additionally, the "Emergency SOS" feature in the latest models facilitates contacting emergency services through this connection.
If you want to temporarily restore messaging capability, here’s a step-by-step guide:
What You Need
- iPhone 14 or newer models.
Step 1: Satellite Connection Demo
It's recommended to test the satellite connection before losing signal. Access your phone's control center, select the cellular button, and look for the satellite icon. By tapping it, choose "try to connect to satellite" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Turn on iMessage
It's crucial to have iMessages activated before losing service, as this is necessary to use the satellite connection.
Step 3: Set Up Emergency and Family Contacts
Ensure you have set up your emergency contacts and family sharing. This allows these people to send you messages that you will receive once connected to the satellite, as long as they are using iOS 17.6 or a later version.
Step 4: Connect via Satellite
When your iPhone detects the lack of cellular or WiFi service, you will receive a message on the lock screen indicating the option to send and receive messages via satellite. You will also be able to contact emergency services using the SOS feature if needed.
Step 5: Open the Messages App
Once the satellite connection is established, opening the Messages app will allow you to send texts easily. If you haven't started receiving messages, you will see a notice with instructions to connect to the satellite. Models like the iPhone 14 Pro have an indicator at the top of the screen showing the strength of the connection.
Some additional points to keep in mind about using satellite messaging include that connectivity is free for the two years following device activation. It's also recommended to have a direct line of sight to the sky; obstacles can delay message send times, which can range from 30 seconds to over a minute depending on conditions. Moreover, not all Message features can be used, such as sending photos or group messages, and in certain latitudes, the service may not work.
