Your iPhone is getting this life-saving texting feature with iOS 18 (and it’s not AI)
Apple is one step closer to making satellite messaging a reality.
The tech giant confirmed earlier this week that the ability to send messages via satellite Coming to iOS 18. This feature will allow users to send messages, emojis, and rich content like photos and videos, even if they don’t have access to Wi-Fi or a wireless network. Apple says satellite messages will also work with Tapbacks, and all content shared via satellite will be end-to-end encrypted.
Also: Every iPhone model that can be updated to Apple’s iOS 18 (and which ones can’t)
However, not everyone can take advantage of satellite messaging iOS 18 debut. In a footnote on its iOS 18 page, Apple confirms that the feature is only available for iPhone 14 and later models, so users of older iPhones won’t be able to use satellite messages at all.
Apple has been providing Emergency SOS feature via satellite since the iPhone 14 launches in 2022. Users can call and text other users in an emergency situation. Monday’s move means Apple is expanding satellite messaging capabilities regardless of whether users are in an emergency situation or not.
Although wireless signals are ubiquitous, people who enjoy hiking or exploring areas outside of more populated locations often find themselves losing network connectivity and being unable to contact others. By adding the option of satellite messaging, they can stay connected, share their location with friends, and have the option to communicate when there is no wireless signal.
By expanding satellite messaging to all iOS 18 users, Apple’s move also helping it catch up with Google’s Android, also provides satellite messaging for emergencies. At the time of this writing, Android users can’t text anyone via satellite, but in April, eagle-eyed observers discovered that Google might be allowing satellite messaging with anyone. in Android 15.
Also: How to install iOS 18 developer beta (and which models support it)
The big question that remains unanswered, however, is whether Apple (and perhaps Google) will eventually charge for the ability to send messages and make calls via satellite.
When Apple unveiled its satellite emergency calling feature in 2022, the company said it would offer the feature for free for two years, suggesting it would come with a cost structure in 2024. However, Last year, Apple gave iPhone 14 owners an extra year of usage time. free emergency calls, seemingly pushing paid plans back to 2025.
Apple did not say on its iOS 18 page whether it plans to charge for satellite messages or whether the service will come with a plan. But given that the company appears to be planning to charge for emergency access to the feature, it stands to reason that Apple would charge for non-emergency use. However, it’s unknown when (or even if) Apple will announce its pricing plans for satellite usage.
Apple’s iOS 18 will launch in public beta next month. It will officially launch this fall.
