How to Use Satellite Messaging on iPhone running iOS 18

With the iOS 18 update, Apple launched the satellite messaging feature to iPhone 14 and later models. Satellite messaging is currently available for iOS 18 device users in the US and Canada. Using this, you can send SMS messages or iMessages to anyone without a cellular or WiFi connection. Through satellite messaging, you can even send and receive emojis and tapbacks. You only need to stay outside with a clear vision of the sky and horizon.

Note – Satellite messaging is available for free for two years after the activation of iPhone 14 and above models.

How Satellite Connection Works on iPhone

As satellites are located hundreds of miles away from Earth, you need to ensure a few things before using this feature.

• If your phone is under the clear sky, the message might take thirty seconds to send. But it might take a minute or more to send or receive messages in areas with medium foliage or under trees with light.
• If you are in regions surrounded by obstructions, such as hills, mountains, or canyons, the device won’t connect to a satellite.
• Remember that the time it takes to send a message via satellite depends on the text length and satellite network availability.
• The satellite messaging can still work if your iPhone screen is locked.
• To avoid connectivity issues, hold your iPhone in your hand instead of putting it in a backpack or pocket.
• If you try to send messages from the northern parts of Alaska with a latitude of above 62°, it might not work.

How to Send Messages via Satellite on iPhone in iOS 18

1. On your iPhone, swipe down from the upper right corner to bring up the Control Center.

2. Select the Cellular button on the right, hit Satellite, and choose Messages via satellite.

3. Finish the configuration by following the guidelines that appear on the iPhone screen.

4. From now on, it will show a pop-up about satellite messages if you have gone to areas without a cellular or WiFi network.

5. In the pop-up, tap Use Messages via Satellite to send or receive texts.

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