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How to Send a Text Message via Satellite on iPhone (Step-by-Step Guide)
Apple’s Messages via Satellite lets iPhone users text without Wi-Fi or cellular service. Here’s how it works, how to send a message, and why it matters.
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Key Takeaways:
- iOS 18 brings Messages via Satellite: Apple now lets iPhone 14 and newer send texts without Wi-Fi or cellular, using low Earth orbit satellites.
- How Messages via Satellite works: You must aim your iPhone toward a satellite, with on-screen guidance in Dynamic Island to maintain a stable connection.
- Sending messages through the Messages app: Once connected, you can compose texts as usual, with Apple’s interface showing progress and alerts if the link drops.
- Dynamic Island shows connection status: The pill-shaped display guides adjustments, turning green when the satellite lock is strong and red when alignment is lost.
- Limitations and battery concerns: Only available in the US and Canada, early chats may be restricted, and repeated use quickly drains iPhone battery life.
With the launch of the iPhone 14 series, Apple introduced a revolutionary feature called Emergency SOS via Satellite. This feature lets you contact emergency services when there’s no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage in an area by connecting to communication satellites in low Earth orbit.
Now, Apple has expanded the functionality of this feature in the form of Messages via Satellite. But what exactly is this feature, and how do you send messages via satellite on iPhone? Let’s take a look.
What is Messages via Satellite on iPhone?
Messages via Satellite feature lets you send and receive texts, emojis, and Tapbacks over iMessage and SMS through satellite connections. This ensures that you can communicate with your close ones even in remote areas.
It works by allowing you to send messages without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. Your iPhone searches for a satellite connection. If one’s available, you’re prompted to connect by pointing your iPhone towards the satellite. Once connected, you can initiate a conversation with your contacts.
How to Send a Text Message via Satellite on iPhone
Using Messages via Satellite is quite straightforward, with Apple providing guidance throughout. When you’re in an area with no cellular or Wi-Fi connection, your iPhone will automatically detect this and prompt you to enable Messages via Satellite.
Simply tap on the notification, then select Connect to Satellite. Your iPhone will now guide you to point it towards the sky to establish a connection, with real-time updates provided by Dynamic Island at the top of the screen.
Once connected, open the Messages app, compose your message as usual, and hit the Send button. Your iPhone will now transmit the message via the satellite.
It’s worth noting that currently, only emergency contacts and family members set up in your Family Sharing can message you first via satellite. This is to limit the number of spam and promotional messages on your device. However, you can initiate a conversation with anyone if you’re stranded.
At the time of writing, messages sent via satellites don’t show read receipts. You can, however, see “Delivered” and “Sent” status labels for your sent messages.
Maintaining the Connection
Earth’s rotation or user movement can result in loss of connectivity with the satellite. Apple addresses this by providing indicators within Dynamic Island. When you lose the connection with a satellite, this indicator turns orange, and you see an arrow pointing in the direction you need to move to re-establish the connection. The indicator turns green upon reconnecting.
Tip: If you frequently travel to remote places, you can connect your iPhone to Starlink for better satellite connectivity. With this, you don’t have to align your iPhone towards the sky to catch the signals.
Why Messages via Satellite Matters
Messages via Satellite can be a game-changer for those who frequently visit areas with spotty or poor connectivity. It’s a powerful new tool that has the potential to save lives and keep us all connected in even the most challenging circumstances.
FAQs
Is Messages via Satellite free to use?
Messages via Satellite will be free to use for the first two years after purchasing a new iPhone that supports the feature. After that period, Apple may introduce a fee, the details of which have yet to be disclosed.
Who can initiate a message via satellite?
Currently, only emergency contacts and family members set up in your Family Sharing can message you first via satellite. This is a temporary measure to prevent spam. That said, if you’re in a stranded area, you have the option to initiate a Message via Satellite conversation with anyone.
Does using Messages via Satellite drain the battery faster?
Technically, yes. Using satellite communication can drain your battery faster, so it’s a good idea to monitor your battery level and have a power source handy if you think you might need to use this feature extensively.
Read more:
- How to use Apple Intelligence writing tools on iPhone or iPad
- How to use Eye Tracking on iPhone
- How to turn on and use Vehicle Motion Cues on iPhone
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