AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Cell phones have become a lifeline, connecting us with emergency services and loved ones when we need them most. But what if you’re in a remote area with no cell signal?
Thankfully, modern iPhones and Android devices have a solution: satellite connectivity.
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New iPhones (iPhone 14 and later) with iOS 18 and Google Pixel 9 have the ability to connect to emergency services and send messages via satellite when traditional cell towers are out of reach.
This technology utilizes a network of satellites orbiting hundreds of miles above the Earth, providing a critical communications link in areas with limited or no cell phone coverage.
If your phone cannot connect to a cell tower and only “SOS” appears on the screen, your device will automatically try to connect to the satellite to send a message or call emergency services .
You can also use this feature to send short messages to friends and family, or share live video if you have good signal.
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before you need it
To ensure you’re prepared for emergencies, it’s important to enable satellite service on your phone in advance. Here’s how:
- iPhone:[設定]>[プライバシーとセキュリティ]>[位置情報サービス]>[システム サービス]>[緊急通報と SOS]Move to. Toggle the switch to turn on this feature. To enable iMessage via satellite,[設定]>[メッセージ]Move to.
- Android: Steps may vary depending on your device and Android version. Please refer to your mobile phone’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific guidance.
Using satellite connectivity
If you are in an emergency situation where cell phone service is unavailable:
- Swipe down the screen to access the control panel.
- Select the “Satellite” option. (This only appears when there is no Wi-Fi or cellular connection.)
- Follow the on-screen instructions to align your phone with the satellite.
- Once connected, you’ll see options to contact emergency services, send an iMessage, and request roadside assistance.
Apple provides a demo to see how this technology works. Swipe into the control panel and you’ll see that option.
When you run the demo, your WiFi or cellular connection will be temporarily disconnected. Please note that messages sent via satellite may take longer to send than regular texts due to the nature of the technology.
Additionally, a clear view of the sky is important for establishing a strong satellite connection. Tree branches and leaves can also interfere with your connection to the satellite.
The future of satellite connectivity
Although currently limited to new iPhone models and the Google Pixel 9, satellite communications technology is rapidly evolving. T-Mobile is actively working to expand this feature to more devices, pending FCC approval.
Once you understand this technology and enable it on your devices, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a backup means of communication in case of an emergency, even when you’re off the grid.
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