iOS 18.5 - iPhone 13 Series will receive a satellite function?

In 2022, during the premiere of the iPhone 14 series, Apple presented iOS 16 with a new functionality - satellite communication via phone. The function was originally called "Emergency SOS via satellite" and was intended for emergency situations in which users need help. At a later stage, with the appearance of iOS 18, the satellite connection function has improved and now offers sending a text message to contacts added in a group - family and friends. At the time of publication of this article, these satellite features are not working in Bulgaria and many other countries. In fact, the SOS function works in 18 countries out of a total of 195 at the moment, and the text function only works in two, with the requirement for satellite text messages being that operators support the feature.

Which models currently support satellite communication?

Before the iOS 18.5 software update, the models that support satellite communication are all of the iPhone 14, iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series. These devices have the necessary hardware components to enable the use of the “Emergency SOS via satellite” feature for emergencies, as well as the improved ability to send text messages via satellite introduced with iOS 18. For satellite communication to function, the device must be in an area with a clear view of the sky and the user must follow on-screen instructions for pointing to a satellite. It is important to note that even with supporting models, the feature is geographically limited and dependent on cooperation with local operators and regulatory authorities. Apple continues to work on expanding this technology to make it available in more regions and for more users.

Which models are expected to get satellite connectivity in iOS 18.5?

According to unconfirmed information, the upcoming iOS 18.5 update is expected to bring satellite texting functionality to all 13-series models, including the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. This improvement would be very useful for users because it would allow older devices to take advantage of modern communication capabilities, albeit with some limitations. Unfortunately, due to the lack of specific hardware components in the iPhone 13 series, the “Emergency SOS via satellite” function will not be available for these models. Texting via satellite is expected to be optimized for short and clear communications, which will make it easier for users in situations without cellular and WiFi signal. Apple has not yet officially confirmed this information, but rumors suggest that the update could be released in the coming days with iOS 18.5, which will SMS via satellite requires carrier compatibility.