Messages via satellite on your iPhone via Globalstar L-band
Starting in iOS 18, Messages via satellite can help you connect with your friends and family*, even when you’re somewhere with no cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. You can send and receive texts, emojis, and Tapbacks over iMessage and SMS.
To connect to a satellite, you need to be outside with a clear view of the sky and horizon.
Learn how to connect to a satellite with your iPhone
Messages via satellite is available in the U.S. and Canada. It’s free for two years after the activation of an iPhone 14 or later (all models)
* you will need to set Texxa as a family member
| Provider | Coverage | Device |
|---|---|---|
| 🟢2G/3G | everywhere | anything |
| 🟢Apple (Globalstar) | US, Canada, Mexico | iPhone 14+ |
| 🟢T-Mobile (Starlink v2) | US, Canada | standard 5G phone |
| 🟡Globalstar | Americas, Europe, AUS | Globalstar sat phone |
| 🟡Bullitt (Motorola/Defy) | Americas, EU, AUS | Special Bullitt device w/relay app |
| 🟡Inmarsat | Africa, Asia, ME, EU | Inmarsat sat phone |
| 🟡Iridium (inReach) | Global (except polar embargoes) | Garmin inReach w/relay app, sat phone |
| 🟡Thuraya | Europe, Africa, Asia | Thuraya sat phone |
(coverage to be verified)