Satellite comms via iPhones model 13 and later

[Hilux]

I might be late to the party but I discovered this the other day.

You can use an iPhone 13 or later to summon emergency help via Starlink satellites for free.

I went searching to see when they would be introducing test messaging. It seems its available in the USA/Canada (2 years for free) but not yet here in Australia.

I'd love to have this option for road trips to remote areas

https://support.apple.com/en-au/120930

 

[grubstake]

https://www.prospectingaustralia.com/threads/sat-comms-in-the-pilbara.42388/

https://www.prospectingaustralia.com/threads/internet-coverage-out-bush.29185/

 

[Northeast]

Yep, still not where it needs to be for us in Australia but it seems not too far away.

As per the YouTube link below it appears Apple are using the Globalstar network. Not sure about Starlink? I used Iridium via the Zoleo device earlier this year and it worked great. Messaging feature on in US and Canada as Hilux said.



If Samsung or Google were trying to get ahead of the game they should be linking up with Iridium or Starlink. Although just came across this - it looks like Starlink direct to cell tech already exists and will only get stronger as more cell capable satellites are launched https://www.forbes.com/sites/robert...-and-what-mobile-phone-carrier-gets-it-first/

Interesting times ahead and likely lots of options for us, the end users

 

[Hilux]

As per the YouTube link below it appears Apple are using the Globalstar network. Not sure about Starlink?

I probably got that bit wrong. A work colleague showed me how it works on his iPhone (I use Android).

There's a simulation mode that you can use to test that it can connect to a satellite. I thought he said starlink but you're correct about it being Globalstar. I was quite impressed with the demo / test.