As Hurricane Milton draws closer to Florida, the possibility of widespread power and cellular outages looms large. In such a situation, staying connected becomes a crucial challenge. Fortunately, for those using newer iPhones, Apple’s iOS 18 introduces a feature that could be a lifesaver—satellite messaging. This feature allows users to send text messages via satellite even without cellular or Wi-Fi service, ensuring they can stay in touch with loved ones or call for help during emergencies.
What is iOS 18 Satellite Messaging?
iOS 18 is Apple’s latest mobile operating system that brings an array of new features, including satellite messaging for iPhone users. Available on iPhone 14 and newer models, this feature enables users to send text messages through satellite connections when out of range of traditional cellular or Wi-Fi networks. The feature was designed with emergencies in mind, particularly for situations like natural disasters where communication networks often go down.
Apple initially rolled out Emergency SOS via Satellite with the iPhone 14, allowing users to contact emergency services in remote areas. However, iOS 18 expands on that capability, enabling regular text messaging via satellite under non-emergency conditions.
How to Activate Satellite Messaging on Your iPhone
To take advantage of satellite messaging during Hurricane Milton, you’ll need to make sure your device is updated to iOS 18. Here’s how you can enable this feature:
- Check for Updates: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and ensure your phone is running iOS 18. If you haven’t updated yet, you can download the latest version here.
- Turn on iMessage: Before you lose cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, make sure iMessage is activated. You can do this by going to Settings > Messages and toggling iMessage on.
- Ensure Contacts Are Updated: Your contacts must also be using iOS 18 to receive messages via satellite. If they aren’t updated, they won’t be able to get your texts.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your iPhone will be ready to send messages through satellite in the event of a communication outage caused by Hurricane Milton.
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How Does Satellite Messaging Work?
When cellular or Wi-Fi networks are unavailable, iPhones with iOS 18 will prompt users to switch to satellite messaging. The iPhone will guide you to point your device towards a satellite to establish a connection. For this, you’ll need to be outdoors with a clear view of the sky and horizon.
While satellite messaging isn’t as fast as standard texting, it can still get the job done in critical situations. Messages may take up to 30 seconds to send, depending on the satellite’s position and signal strength. The connection is established through Apple’s Dynamic Island interface, which will show indicators on where to point your phone for the strongest signal.
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Keep in mind that satellite messaging is limited to text-only communications. You won’t be able to send photos, videos, or audio messages, but regular text messages, emojis, and basic reactions like “thumbs up” or “hearts” will work.
iMessage and SMS Support Over Satellite
In addition to supporting iMessage, Apple has thoughtfully included SMS messaging in its satellite service, ensuring that users can reach out to anyone, regardless of whether they use Apple devices. When using satellite messaging, both iMessage and SMS will display a note indicating “iMessage. Satellite” or “SMS. Satellite,” depending on the type of message being sent.
Messages sent over satellite are compressed into smaller data packets due to bandwidth limitations, meaning they are far slower compared to traditional networks. However, this ensures that important communications can still reach their destination, which is vital during emergencies like Hurricane Milton. It’s important to note that read receipts are not supported when using satellite messaging, so users will only see “delivered” or “sent” statuses.
Satellite Messaging in Action
For iPhone users caught in Hurricane Milton’s path, satellite messaging provides an invaluable communication option. If you lose cellular or Wi-Fi service, your iPhone will automatically prompt you to switch to satellite mode. The phone’s Dynamic Island will guide you on how to locate a satellite for connection, using visual cues to help you avoid obstructions like tall buildings or trees.
This system not only enables text messaging but also integrates with other satellite-powered tools, such as Find My, Emergency SOS, and even roadside assistance, making it a well-rounded solution for those in need of help.
During a demonstration of iOS 18 at Apple Park, an Apple representative used the satellite messaging feature by disabling the phone’s cellular and Wi-Fi connections. After following the phone’s instructions to align with a satellite, the message was sent successfully within 30 seconds, proving that even in adverse conditions, this service works reliably.
