Apple Expands Satellite Texting to iPhone 13: What You Need to Know About the iOS 18.5 Update?
Millions of iPhone users have just received an update that totally changes their phones. Apple’s recent update of iOS 18.5 has introduced satellite texting for iPhone 13 devices which was available only on the iPhone 14 and later before.
This means users are able to send messages when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi service; the messages go up through satellites around the Earth. Off-grid hiking, being in secluded regions or facing unexpected trouble all becomes safer because of this technology.
The update covers the full iPhone 13 lineup:
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
To install it, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and download iOS 18.5 for free.
2. What You Can and Can’t Do with Satellite Connectivity
Users of the iPhone 13 can now text using satellites, though there are several limits. iPhone 14 owners and later have the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature to contact emergency services.
At present, not all regions allow satellite texting with iPhone 13. Your phone company has to provide satellite connectivity and have it included in your plan. Currently:
- T-Mobile (US) is trialing satellite texting with Starlink.
- UK carriers have yet to support the feature.
This means many users will need to wait until their carrier officially rolls out support — or consider an upgrade to newer models for full emergency features.
3. More Than Just Satellite: What Else Is New in iOS 18.5?
Beyond satellite texting, iOS 18.5 includes several new features and critical security updates:
- A fresh new wallpaper option
- Improved parental controls (alerts when Screen Time passcodes are used)
- “Buy with iPhone” for Apple TV purchases
Security patches to block known hacker exploits
They provide a better experience for users and safety for their devices. As iOS updates are used by Apple to address security issues, installing them quickly helps you avoid cyberattacks.
Should your iPhone miss-out on iOS 18.5, think about getting a new one, as it could mean your phone isn’t being updated in a secure way.
4. How to Try the Satellite Demo
Want to see how satellite texting works before you rely on it in an emergency? You can test it using Apple’s Satellite Connection Demo:
To access the demo:
- Go outside with a clear view of the sky.
- Open Control Center > tap the Cellular button.
- Tap Satellite, then Try Demo.
Or go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Satellite Connection Demo.
This walkthrough helps familiarize users with the satellite interface so you’re ready if the need ever arises.
Source: The Sun
