How to Send Messages via Satellite on Your iPhone and Pixel

AI generated satellite

AI generated satellite

Staying connected has become more important than ever, especially in remote areas where cell services are weak or unavailable. To help us in these emergencies, Apple and Google have introduced a groundbreaking feature that allows users to send messages via satellite.

This bridges the gap between cellular networks and satellite technology, offering peace of mind when we are off the grid. Continue to learn how you can send messages via satellite and stay connected.

Satellite Messaging on iPhone

Apple introduced two essential satellite communication features on iPhone 14 models or later with iOS 18. While this feature is currently available only in the US and Canada, Apple is trying to implement it worldwide.

Use iMessage via Satellite

Use iMessage via Satellite
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Credit: Apple | Free use for promotional purposes
  • Open the iMessage app on your iPhone.
  • If you are outside network coverage, a prompt will appear; tap Use Messages via Satellite.
  • Follow the instructions to connect to a satellite and send a message. Don't raise your phone; hold it as you normally would, and make sure you are outside with a clear view of the sky.
  • Once connected, a green dot along with a satellite icon will appear on top of your screen. If the connection is weak, the dot will turn orange and tell you where to find the signal.
  • Enter your message and tap Send. It may take a few minutes to send your message via satellite.

SMS via Satellite

  • On your iPhone, navigate to Settings > Apps > Messages and turn the toggle beside Turn on Send as Text Message.
  • Now connect to the satellite and send your message as shown above.

Satellite Messaging on Pixel

Satellite Messaging on Pixel
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Credit: Google | Free use for promotional purposes

Google's Satellite SOS is available on the Pixel 9 series. This feature by Google operates similarly to Apple's Emergency SOS, allowing users to reach emergency services when they are out of cellular or Wi-Fi range. It is currently available only in the US (except Hawaii and Alaska)

  • Dial 911, and you'll find an option to use Satellite SOS if you don't have a mobile or Wi-Fi network.
  • Tap Satellite SOS > Use Satellite SOS > Start and fill out the emergency questionnaire to describe your emergency.
  • Answer the questions in the questionnaire to share your emergency with your emergency contacts. Select Notify to notify your emergency contacts, and select Don't Notify if you don't want your emergency contact to receive your information.
  • Next, follow the on-screen prompt and correctly position your phone to connect it to the satellite. Note that connection and response times could vary depending on location and other factors.
  • Once connected, the emergency service provider will reply via text within a few minutes. Make sure you stay outside with a clear view of the sky while doing this.

While Apple's Messages via Satellite extends this capability to personal communication, Google focuses solely on emergency use cases. Both systems are easy to use but require the right conditions—such as a clear view of the sky—for optimal functionality.