Finding yourself in an emergency without a way to reach 911 or your loved ones can be terrifying. Severe weather events can destroy homes, phone lines, and electrical systems, making regular cellular or Wi-Fi connections unavailable.

If you’re an iPhone user, you can utilize a satellite connection to seek emergency help or to message your friends and family. Pixel 9 users have a similar capability to connect to satellites for emergency services as well.

This might seem tricky, but there’s no need to worry! Your phone handles most of the process. Step outside to a location where you can see the sky clearly. Avoid areas under tall buildings or trees, as they can block signals. Simply hold your phone up, and it will guide you in the right direction to connect to the satellite.

Check out this video to see the steps for connecting to a satellite with your iPhone.

iPhone Satellite Messaging

There are two satellite communication options on iPhone: Emergency SOS via Satellite and Messages via Satellite. Let’s look at the differences.

Emergency SOS via Satellite connects you directly with emergency services, while Messages via Satellite allows you to send text messages to both Apple and Android users.

• Emergency SOS

When you dial 911, your phone will try all available options to connect. If it cannot connect, a message icon with a small red SOS will appear.

Tap the icon and follow the on-screen prompts. This will assist you in connecting with the appropriate agency. A text conversation will start with emergency responders, who may ask you more questions.

As your phone connects using Emergency SOS, it also shares your location and Medical ID details with first responders. Additionally, your location will be communicated to any emergency contacts saved on your device.

The Emergency SOS via satellite feature is available on iPhone 14 and later models, using iOS 16.1 or newer. Note: Some local emergency numbers may require iOS 16.4 or later.

• Messages via Satellite

Your phone should automatically prompt you to connect to the satellite, either on the Lock Screen or within the Messages app. Ensure that you have the “Send as Text Message” option enabled in your Messages settings. Messages sent via satellite may take longer to deliver and cannot include images, videos, or group texts, but you can send messages to other Apple or Android devices.

Messages via Satellite feature requires an iPhone 14 or newer, with iOS 18 installed.

According to Apple, this feature is complimentary for two years from the activation of an iPhone 14 or later.

Android Satellite Messaging

Google has announced that their Pixel 9 line of devices is currently the only option available for contacting emergency services via satellite. Additionally, Google Messages must be set as the default messaging app on the device.

The Satellite SOS feature will appear in the dialer as an option to contact 911 when there’s no network connection. You will be prompted for further details about your emergency and whether you wish to alert the emergency contacts stored on your phone. After that, you’ll be connected with emergency services.

The phone will guide you to stay aligned with the satellite’s range as needed.

This service is also free for two years, as reported by The Verge.