iPhone satellite messaging service provides Hurricane Helene lifeline

After Hurricane Helene devastated the United States’ southeast, little infrastructure was left for people to coordinate their response, and most importantly, make sure their loved ones were safe. Fortunately, one service was still working: Messages via satellite. While only available to iPhone 14 or later users (thanks, Apple) and only available to those on iOS 18 (thanks, Apple), and only free for two years (thanks, Apple), the ability to connect to a satellite using just the power of pointing, sending a message and knowing that it will definitely reach the target has proven to be a literal lifesaver during aftermath of Helene.

The tech isn’t just for sending memes. The service can be used to send and receive automated emergency messages, and can even automatically share your location and details with emergency services. The only problem is that not many people seemed to realise the service was even a thing. Many grateful users who used the service in the aftermath of the hurricane took to social media to get the word out how to use Messages via satellite during the recovery operations, especially when venturing off grid.

In addition to the surprisingly useful Apple service for once, CEO Tim Cook tweeted on Monday that Apple will be making a donation to help with relief efforts. Thanks, Apple.