A feature that you never want to have to use, but is thankful is there when you need it is the ability to send messages over satellite. And you are able to do this on both the iPhone and the Google Pixel smartphones. This is really good news in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton which is the second major hurricane to hit the US in just a few weeks time.
With many landlines and carrier networks being down, being able to send messages via satellite is an amazing feature to have. And will let you tell your family and friends that you’re okay (or if you’re not okay), and what’s going on.
Apple added satellite messaging with the iPhone 14 series. So the iPhone 14, iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 all have this feature, and it is included for free. Google added satellite SOS on the Pixel 9 series this year.
How to use Emergency SOS Messaging on iPhone
Using an iPhone 14 or later, you can contact emergency services without having cell service or WiFi. No setup is required; it just works. Here’s how to do it:
- Dial 911 first. Now if the call fails, then tap on Emergency Text via Satellite. This will allow you to text emergency services.
- You can also go into the Messages app and text 911 or SOS and then tap on Emergency Services.
- Tap Report Emergency and then follow the onscreen instructions.
This text conversation with emergency services will include necessary info for first responders to reach you. This includes location, remaining battery life, as well as your Medical ID and emergency contact information. If you’ve set up emergency contacts in the Health app, you also have the ability to share this information with them automatically. Again this will only work on iPhones that have iOS 16.1 or later.
How to use Satellite SOS Messaging on Google Pixel 9
This year, Google added Satellite SOS Messaging to the Pixel 9 series. That includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
- Ensure that Google Messages is your default messaging app.
- Dial 911. If there’s no cell service or WiFi, you’ll see Satellite SOS. Tap on Satellite SOS.
- Then tap on Use Satellite SOS.
- And tap Start.
- Next, you’ll be asked to fill out an emergency questionnaire.
- Afterwards, you’ll be given the option to notify your emergency contacts.
- Next, you’ll be directed to direct your phone towards a satellite, similar to how it works on iPhone.
- You’ll need to be outside and away from trees to get the best connection. This could take some time to be sent, but stick around to get a response from an emergency service provider by text.
How to use Satellite Messaging on iPhone
New in iOS 18, Apple has added the ability to send messages over Satellite to people other than emergency services. Now this won’t work for just texting anyone and everyone while you wait for help during an emergency. Instead, this is limited to those in your Family Sharing Group and your emergency contact. Here’s how to set it up.
- First, make sure you have upgraded to iOS 18.
- Next, make sure that iMessage is turned on (Settings > Apps > Messages > iMessage).
- You also need to make sure that your friends and family have upgraded to iOS 18, otherwise they won’t get your message.
- Next, update your Family Sharing Group and Emergency Contact. Once you’ve sent a message over satellite, that person is able to reply, but you can only receive a message before sending one from someone in your Family Sharing Group or Emergency Contact.
Now, here’s how you can use Satellite Messaging on the iPhone.
- Open the Messages app.
- A satellite prompt will automatically appear if there’s no cellular service or WiFi.
- Next, tap on the Use Messages via Satellite option.
- You’ll need to follow the on-screen instructions to connect to a satellite. A green dot and a satellite icon will appear at the top of your phone. If your connection is weak, that green dot will turn orange. And an arrow will point in the direction you need to move to get a better signal.
- Now, type in your message and press send. Because this is being done over satellite, it will take longer than usual to transmit your message. Additionally, those that you are messaging will see a status notifying them that you are messaging via satellite.
How to share your location via Satellite on iPhone
One of the cooler features of the iPhone is the ability to share your location via the Find My app, as well as the ability to Check In. But during emergencies, this gets a little harder when there’s no cell service or WiFi. Luckily, you can also send your location over Satellite. Here’s how:
- Open the Find My app on your iPhone, and turn on Share My Location.
- When you’re outside without cell service or WiFi, open the Find My app.
- Now tap on Me at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap Send my Location and follow the onscreen instructions. It’s important to note that you can only send your location once every 15 minutes.
