Messages via Satellite in Real Life, and Real Life Catastrophes ⇥ 9to5mac.com

As smartphones began competing on satellite connectivity, I had my doubts. Sure, I could imagine a dire emergency situation where it would be lifesaving, but would I ever use it? I hike a little and I cycle a lot, often without cell connectivity, and I feel completely comfortable. I am by no means an extreme sports enthusiast or adventurer. When would I need this stuff?

Well, the Messages via Satellite capability — new for iPhone users in iOS 18 — sure was handy this weekend. I was cycling a light trail in Kananaskis with a friend when I had a low-speed fall in a rock field. It was embarrassing. It also gave me a deep, five centimetre-long cut on my knee. It was not bad enough to need medical attention — I was able to keep cycling just fine — but it was good to know I would be able to get help if I needed it in an area without any cellular reception. And, at the trailhead, I was able to let my wife know I was fine via satellite-sent text message.

Of course, it can also be used in more dire circumstances, as many are finding out.

Ryan Christoffel, 9to5Mac:

Hurricane Helene has caused massive damage and taken over 100 lives across several US states. Many thousands of people are without power and/or cell service. But in the wake of the storm, reports have surfaced about a key iOS 18 feature that has been a lifeline for survivors: Messages via satellite.

In my case, useful; in the case of many people, a truly lifesaving addition. You know those graphics of everything smartphones replaced? Satellite phones surely have not been replaced for the avid adventurer, but they can probably be added to that graphic for a lot of us. Smartphone makers seem to have gone through the list of everyday necessities, then the weekly or monthly ones, and now are at a point where they are adding features we may use only once — but we are glad when we do.