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 satelite is coming to iOS 18. The feature will allow users to send messages, emojis, and rich content like photos and videos, even when they don’t have access to a Wi-Fi or wireless network. Apple said that satellite messaging will also work with Tapbacks and that all content shared via satellite will come with end-to-end encryption.
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However, not everyone will be able to take advantage of satellite messaging when iOS 18 releases. In a footnote on its iOS 18 page, Apple confirmed that the feature is only available for iPhone 14 models or later, so those users with older iPhones won’t be able to use satellite messaging at all.
Apple has been offering Satellite Emergency SOS Features since the iPhone 14 was released in 2022. Users can call and message other users in an emergency situation. Monday’s move means Apple is expanding the ability to send messages via satellite regardless of whether users are in an emergency situation.
Although wireless signals are ubiquitous, those who like to walk or explore areas outside of more populated places often find themselves off the grid and unable to communicate with other people. By adding the option to send messages via satellite, they can stay connected, share their locations with friends, and have a communication option when they don’t have a wireless signal.
By expanding satellite messaging to all users in iOS 18, Apple’s move also helps you keep up with Google’s Android, which also offers satellite messaging for emergencies. As of this writing, Android users can’t send messages to anyone via satellite, but in April, eagle-eyed observers discovered that Google will likely allow messages to be sent via satellite to anyone. on android 15.
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However, the main question left unanswered is whether Apple (and perhaps Google) will eventually charge for the ability to send messages and make calls via satellite.
When Apple introduced satellite emergency calling in 2022, the company said it would make it available for free for two years, suggesting it would come with a cost structure in 2024. Last year, however, Apple gave owners of iPhone 14 an extra year of free emergency calls, which will apparently delay paid plans until 2025.
Apple didn’t say on its iOS 18 page whether it plans to charge for satellite messaging or if the service will come in some kind of package. But considering that the company apparently plans to charge for emergency access to the feature, it makes sense for Apple to charge for non-emergency use. However, it is unknown when (or even if) Apple will announce its pricing plans for satellite use.
Apple’s iOS 18 will be released in public beta next month. It will be officially launched this fall.