If you’re an iPhone user in a storm-hit area, you may be able to use some of your iPhone’s features through a satellite connection even if your cell phone signal is lost.
All iPhone 14, 15, and 16 models have the ability to connect to satellites. To send text messages to your family and friends via satellite, you need to update your phone to the latest software iOS 18. The recipient of your message must also be using the latest version of iOS. For emergency use, Apple recommends dialing 911, which will connect you to Emergency SOS.
To update your device,[設定]>[一般]>[ソフトウェア アップデート]Move to. If you haven’t updated iOS in a while, you may need to install a previous update before iOS 18 shows up as an option.
If you are out of range of your phone, a pop-up will automatically appear asking you to send the message via satellite. Try to be outdoors with a good view of the sky.
If you want to be able to contact specific family members or friends via satellite, add them to your emergency contacts or family sharing group through the Apple Health app. Otherwise, you must initiate communication.
Without a cell phone signal, you can’t send photos, videos, or voice messages. Sending a text takes between 30 seconds and a minute.
Android users with Google’s Pixel 9 smartphones can also send text messages to emergency services via satellite by following the instructions on this Google support site.
However, not all Android smartphones allow users to send text messages to family and friends via satellite. If you have an Android smartphone and have access to broadband or Wi-Fi, try using messaging apps like Signal, WhatsApp, and Messenger that don’t require a cellular connection.
