iPhone and iOS 18.5: Satellite Messaging Now Available on More Models and Regions 🛰️
Find out which iPhones support satellite messaging with iOS 18.5 and where this lifesaving feature is now available—even with no Wi-Fi or mobile signal.
EN - IPHONE AND APPLE PRODUCTS
Quebec Test
6/6/20252 min read
Imagine being out in the wilderness, with zero cellular signal or Wi-Fi. In the past, this would’ve meant complete isolation. But Apple has changed the game with satellite messaging. Now, thanks to iOS 18.5, this feature is supported on even more iPhone models and in more parts of the world.
📡 What Is Satellite Messaging on iPhone?
Satellite messaging allows iPhone users to send SMS or iMessages via satellite when there's no cellular or Wi-Fi connection. It works by connecting to low-Earth orbit satellites to transmit messages. There are now two types of satellite messaging:
Apple’s native satellite messaging (via iMessage/SMS)
Carrier-supported satellite messaging (new in iOS 18.5)
✅ Devices Compatible with Satellite Messaging in iOS 18.5
1. Native Apple Satellite Messaging
Available on:
iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max
🔹 Requires iOS 18 or newer.
🔹 Free for 2 years after device activation.
2. Carrier-Supported Satellite Messaging (iOS 18.5 feature)
iOS 18.5 enables support for third-party satellite services—like T-Mobile with Starlink—on older devices too:
iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
iPhone 14 / 15 / 16 (all variants)
🔸 Requires a compatible carrier plan that supports satellite services.
🌍 Regions Where Satellite Messaging Is Available
Apple Native Satellite Messaging:
🇺🇸 United States
🇨🇦 Canada
🇲🇽 Mexico
Carrier-Supported Messaging:
🌍 United States (T-Mobile with Starlink)
📌 More countries expected based on regulatory approvals
📲 How to Use Satellite Messaging
Be outdoors with a clear view of the sky
Open the Messages or Find My app
If no signal is available, you'll see a “Send via Satellite” prompt
Compose and send your message (text only)
🔐 Is It Secure?
iMessages sent via satellite are end-to-end encrypted
SMS messages sent to non-iMessage users are not encrypted
Apple does not use this data for tracking or advertising
⚠️ Limitations
Works only outdoors with clear sky
No photo, video, or audio support
Apple’s service is free for 2 years only
Carrier-based services may incur extra fees
🧭 Who Is This For?
Hikers and adventurers in remote areas
Travelers who cross into low-coverage zones
Anyone who wants an emergency communication backup
🧩 Final Thoughts
With iOS 18.5, Apple has made satellite messaging far more accessible. Whether you use an iPhone 13, 14, 15, or the latest iPhone 16, you now have a built-in backup line to the world—even where networks can’t reach. It’s a major step forward in mobile safety and global communication.