With iOS 18 and later, iPhone 14 and later models can send messages to anyone using satellite.
Before the next hurricane, if you have an iPhone 14 or newer, try the Messaging via Satellite demo. |Image credit-Apple
Once connected, you can text your medical ID and emergency contact information to emergency responders, but only if you take the time to set it up. Take an emergency survey and share your location (including altitude) and your iPhone’s battery level.
When using Messaging via Satellite, if you start a conversation by sending a message first, Othera can join the chat even if you’re in an area without a cell phone or Wi-Fi signal. If you use iMessage, your conversations are protected with end-to-end encryption, so only the people you’re chatting with can see what you write.
you iPhone14 For subsequent users, iOS18 Once installed, it may come in handy if you lose power, cell phone connectivity, or Wi-Fi during Hurricanes Helen and Milton. When I went without cell phone or Wi-Fi connectivity for a week in South Florida in 2005 during Hurricane Wilma, I was starting to feel very isolated from the rest of the country. I remember how great it felt when I got my cell phone signal back and was able to hear the end of the 2005 World Series (the Chicago White Sox won the championship), a team that 19 years later became the best team in modern baseball history. (a team that overtook the 1962 Mets as the biggest loser).
How to demonstrate Message via Satellite and Emergency SOS via Satellite
But I digress. Messaging via satellite allows you to include emojis and respond with tapbacks in iMessage and SMS. This service is free for two years after activation. iPhone14 Later models. You can try the demo to see how to use the features. Here’s what you need to do:
- To open Control Center, swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone.
- Tap the Cellular button on the right side of Control Center.
- Tap the Satellite button, then tap Try Demo.
- To learn how to connect to a satellite, tap Try Connecting to a Satellite.
- [緊急 SOS]Tap to demo satellite emergency SOS.
Apple recommends following these tips to increase your chances of connecting with satellite:
- Go outdoors with a clear view of the sky and horizon.
- Please note that trees with bright leaves can slow down your connection. Dense foliage, hills and mountains, valleys, and tall structures can interfere with connectivity.
- Hold your iPhone naturally. You don’t have to raise your arm or pick up your phone, but don’t put your phone in your pocket or backpack.
- If you need to turn left or right or move around a blocked light, your iPhone will show you instructions on the screen.
- You can maintain your satellite connection even if your phone screen is locked.
- Satellite connectivity may not work in locations above 62 degrees latitude, such as northern Alaska.
If you live in an area of the United States where hurricanes are a reality, try demoing Satellite Messaging and Satellite Emergency SOS before the next hurricane hits. This way, you will know how to use both services if you need them.