How the New iPhone iOS 18 Update Can Help You During Natural Disasters

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The new Apple iOS 18 update for iPhones helps users stay connected during network outage. The iPhone 14 and newer models equip users with satellite communication technology. This allows users to reach out to emergency services and personal contacts, in times of natural disasters.

How to Check If Your iPhone Supports Satellite Communication

Not sure whether your device can handle satellite communication? No worries, it's super easy to check:

1. Head to Settings.

2. Tap General.

3. Select About

4. Look for the Model Name.

If your phone is an iPhone 14, 15, or 16, your device can connect to satellites and access this crucial feature.

Updating Your iPhone to iOS 18

To use this satellite texting feature, your phone must run iOS 18. Here's how to update:

1. Open up Settings.

2. Tap General.

3. Select Software Update.

4. Tap Update Now to install iOS 18.

Once iOS 18 installs, you can start send texts via satellite using iMessage or SMS. For messages to connect, both your device and the recipient's device must have iOS 18.

Setting Up Emergency Contacts

To set up your emergency contacts list, add the people you want to reach to Family Sharing or your Health app. The Wall Street Journal suggests that this helps streamline communication for satellite texting.

How to Use Satellite Texting

When cell range is down, a popup will ask if you want to use satellite communication for Messages. If you agree, your phone will direct you to an open area with a clear view of the sky, away from trees or obstacles.

Keep in mind that satellite communication is slower than regular text messaging. It may take up to 30 seconds to send a message, or even longer if you're near trees. You can't send pictures, videos, or audio files, and there may be a character limit for messages. Incoming messages may also be inconsistent until you reconnect to a cell tower.

Does This Work on Android Phones?

Currently, this satellite communication feature is exclusive to iPhones. But, Google's Pixel 9 expects to include satellite communication for emergency services soon.

Visit Apple's website for more information on using your iPhone in emergency situations, especially when cellular service is unavailable.

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References:

• WGAU

• The Wall Street Journal