Apple surprises with offline messaging feature

If you are a lover of adventurous trips such as hiking through forests or climbing mountains in remote areas, losing network connection is inevitable.

In places without cell service or Wi-Fi, staying in touch with loved ones can be nearly impossible. But with Apple's new satellite messaging feature, that's about to change.

Launched with iOS 18, the “Messages via Satellite” feature allows users to send iMessages and SMS even when they are in the middle of a deep forest, a desert, or a mountaintop without coverage.

The feature operates on the same satellite infrastructure that Apple has used for emergency services (SOS), but is now expanded to be used in regular situations without having to wait for an emergency.

Unlike emergency services, which are limited, iMessage over satellite functions as a real messaging tool. Users can use emojis, quick replies with emoji (tapback), and best of all, messages are still end-to-end encrypted to ensure privacy as when used with Wi-Fi or 4G networks.

However, the feature is currently only available in select regions, for devices from iPhone 14 and above, and requires iOS 18. Here's how it works and what you need to know to get the most out of this pioneering technology from Apple.

How to send iMessage or SMS without Wi-Fi or cellular signal on iPhone?

With the launch of satellite messaging, Apple has opened up the possibility of communication in places that were previously almost “completely offline”. However, to use this feature, users need to pay attention to a few basic conditions.

First, make sure that iMessage is enabled on your iPhone and that your SIM is working properly. If your device is eligible and you’re in an area without Wi-Fi or cellular, a “Satellite Message” notification will appear on your lock screen. Tapping it will take you to an interface that shows you available satellite services like Messages, Find My iPhone, Roadside Assistance, and Emergency SOS.

To start sending messages, open the appMessage, then select the pop-up “Connect to satellite” at the top of the screen.

You may be asked to adjust your body or device position slightly to complete the connection. When the connection is successful, the screen will show a satellite icon with a green dot. If the signal is weak, an orange dot will appear with an arrow pointing in the direction you need to rotate to improve the connection.

Once the connection is stable, you can text as usual. Messages sent via satellite will be marked with a “Satellite” indicator to distinguish them from traditional messages.

Remarkably, you don't have to venture into remote areas just to test this feature. Apple offers a test mode that lets you experience the satellite connection process right at home. To try it out, openSetting>Message>Satellite connection demo.

This feature is not only a technological step forward, but also brings real peace of mind to those who regularly travel to areas without signal, from climbers, explorers, backpackers or rescue workers.

Limitations to know about satellite messaging on iPhone

While it's seen as an impressive step forward in connectivity, Apple's satellite messaging feature still comes with some notable limitations.

First of all, this feature is only available on iPhone 14 series and later, and is free for the first 2 years from the date of device activation. After the trial period, Apple has not yet announced the service maintenance fee, making it difficult for users to predict long-term costs.

Additionally, the feature is still quite limited in scope, only available in the US, Canada and Mexico at the moment. Support also depends on the carrier. In the US, T-Mobile and Verizon are the two carriers that have confirmed support for this service.

In terms of performance, satellite messaging isn’t as fast as Wi-Fi or 4G/5G. Even in ideal conditions, when you’re outside with a clear view, it can take up to 30 seconds for your iPhone to send a text message. And familiar features like sending photos, videos, voice messages, or group chats aren’t supported in satellite mode.

Another technical note is that for your recipient to receive your iMessage via satellite, their device must also be running iOS 18 or later. If they have a non-Apple device or an iPhone that hasn’t been updated, you’ll have to switch to sending regular SMS messages.

However, Apple still leaves a big plus for the user experience, emergency contacts and members of Family Sharing groups can send SMS to you even if you have never texted them before. These messages will be saved and displayed when the iPhone reconnects to satellites to ensure you do not miss important information in an emergency situation.