Other iPhone 14 - Satellite Features and Costs

[kaardowiq]

With iPhone 14 we’ll be able to use satellite connections for basic things (mostly emergencies). They told it may take several seconds up to minutes for small messages. While handling of emergencies was described in detail, they also mentioned to share location with family and friends. However, you could shortly see grey message bubbles which weren’t mentioned in any way.

- can we use this for basic messaging without cell/wifi connection via satellite if no signal is present?
- which services can be used (location sharing, messaging maybe?,…)
- 24 month are free of use, what’ll it cost after this (payment period, included in Apple one?, additional subscription,..)

 

[robgendreau]

I think it's just emergencies and Find My... stuff. Basically like the SPOTs and Inreaches do now.

I very much doubt you can use it to receive messages FROM friends. As you can with an Inreach. Maybe in the future.

All it will do is text messaging (short), and although I think they didn't say it, GPS location.

A similar service from Garmin runs about $15 mo, if that's a comparison. For I think 10 messages?

 

[KFridman]

There are a few devices that keep you in contact while out of cell service/wi-fi. They allow you to text and send your location. From the research I've done the Iridium satellite system is more reliable than Globalstar. Maybe with the upgrade Globalstar is suppossed to be doing that will change. Most of the devices use Iridium. It's easy to pick a device based on the upfront cost of it. Comparing the monthly/annual plans is what makes your head spin. Will wait to see what Apple will be charging after the two year free period and if they eventually allow texting in non-emergency situations.