iPhone Users in Japan Can Now Send Messages via Satellite

[MacRumors]

iPhone users in Japan are now able to use Apple's Messages via satellite feature, Apple said today. Messages via satellite works on the iPhone 14 or later and the Apple Watch Ultra 3, allowing users who have no cellular or Wi-Fi connection to use satellite connectivity for messaging.

When attempting to send a message with no cellular or Wi-Fi connection, iPhone users in Japan will see a message that prompts them to connect to the nearest satellite. After connecting, users can send and receive iMessages, SMS messages, emoji characters, and use the Messages Tapback feature.

Messages sent via satellite offer the same end-to-end encryption as messages sent over Wi-Fi or cellular.

Japanese users already had access to emergency SOS via satellite and the option to share location via satellite in the Find My app, so the new Messages via satellite option joins those two features.

iOS 18 or later is required for Messages via satellite on iPhone, while the feature needs watchOS 26 or later on the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Satellite connectivity continues to be free for all iPhone and Apple Watch users with supported devices.

Article Link: iPhone Users in Japan Can Now Send Messages via Satellite

 

[jz0309]

this is a good thing considering the earthquake earlier today, should come to California too I hope

 

[kotaKat]

Is this part of the Globalstar expansion out at Bihoro, or is the work at Bihoro for the further augmented service down the line w/ C3?

https://investors.globalstar.com/news-releases/news-release-details/globalstar-begins-major-expansion-ground-station-bihoro-japan

 

[BenGoren]

this is a good thing considering the earthquake earlier today, should come to California too I hope

For what it’s worth, today’s quake was no big deal — despite being pretty massive seismically. Half a dozen injuries, none serious. Here in Tokyo, nobody felt a thing. The worst of the fallout is disruption to train service a couple hundred kilometers to the north as they inspect the tracks for as-yet unnoticed damage.

Actually … come to think of it, the worst is probably the fear and memories this will have brought back to those who lived through the great Tohoku earthquake a bit over a decade ago in the same part of the country. That’s the one that triggered the tsunami that took out the Fukushima nuclear power plant — the same tsunami that swept away tens of thousands of people and left a quarter million homeless.

And, yes. Satellite service in the aftermath of that one would have been a very good thing. A very small good thing in comparison to the scale of rescue, recovery and rebuilding needed in the aftermath … but it still would have been a very good thing.

b&

 

[slomtbr]

this is a good thing considering the earthquake earlier today, should come to California too I hope

About Messages via satellite on your iPhone - Apple Support

With iPhone 14 or later, you can send iMessages or SMS messages via satellite when you’re off the grid with no cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.

support.apple.com

 

[MacRumorUser78]

This brings up a question. Where does Satellite messaging work in the world for a US iPhone?