In iOS 18, Apple is further enhancing satellite connectivity for iPhone users with the introduction of satellite messaging. Read on to learn how it works.

iOS 18: Send Messages Without a Wi-Fi or Cellular Connection


Available for U.S. users with iPhone 14 models and later, Satellite Messaging enables users to exchange iMessages and SMS texts, including emojis and Tapback, over a satellite connection when traditional networks are unavailable.

Apple is using the infrastructure it has built for emergency calls via satellite to enable this feature, but you don't need to be in an emergency to use it, and the service is currently free.

When iPhone detects that it is out of range of a cellular network or Wi-Fi, it alerts the user to provide 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 when off the network, with iOS providing on-screen guidance to help point the iPhone to available satellites.

iMessages sent via satellite are end-to-end encrypted. However, it's worth noting that while iMessage functionality is fully supported, SMS functionality is more restricted to prevent abuse of automated systems. Emergency contacts and designated family members can initiate SMS contact at any time, but for other contacts, iPhone users must send the first satellite text message before they can respond.

To get familiar with this potentially life-saving feature, Apple iOS 18 includes Demo Mode. You can access this demo by following these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and tap Apps, then tap Messages.
  3. Scroll down and tap Satellite Connection Demo.

iOS 18: Send Messages Without a Wi-Fi or Cellular Connection

This demo will guide you through the process of establishing a satellite connection. Satellite connectivity and messaging provides valuable practice in real-life scenarios and emergencies where this capability can be critical.

While the current version does not support Rich Communications Services (RCS), Apple could do a good job bridging the rest by expanding the feature in future iOS updates, bridging the gap between traditional communications and satellite communications.

Tags: Messages, SOS via satellite

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                            <p style="display: inline-flex;float: right; color:#333333;">Source: macrumors.com</p>
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