Apple is expanding its Emergency SOS via satellite service to include the ability to share photos and maps without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. The feature, which leverages the company's existing satellite infrastructure, was announced as part of the iOS 18 preview.
According to Apple, the new capability will allow users to send images and location details via satellite in the Messages app when they are outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. This builds upon the existing Emergency SOS service, which launched in 2022 and is available on iPhone 14 and later models.
The company states the service is designed for scenarios like hiking, remote travel, or during natural disasters when traditional networks are unavailable. It will be included for free for two years with the activation of any iPhone 14 or later model.
Apple has not announced a specific public release date for the photo and map sharing features beyond their inclusion in the upcoming iOS 18 software, which is expected to be released to all users in the fall.
