As Hurricane Milton approaches the Florida coast, residents are preparing for the possibility of disrupted communication networks. With the release of iOS 18, Apple has introduced a satellite messaging feature for iPhone 14 and later models that could be crucial for staying connected in areas where cellular and Wi-Fi services may go down due to the storm.
Hurricane Milton, a Category 4 storm, is expected to land on Wednesday, posing a significant threat to densely populated areas. As the storm intensifies, the likelihood of communication outages increases, making Apple's satellite messaging a potential lifeline for those in affected regions.
Users need to update their devices to iOS 18 to use the satellite feature. Once installed, they can send messages through satellites by being outdoors with a clear view of the sky. This feature enables users to send texts via Apple Messages or SMS and also share their location through the Find My app, even when traditional networks fail. Apple also encourages using Emergency SOS via satellite to contact emergency services in critical situations.
This satellite capability has proven valuable in past emergencies. After Hurricane Helene, which caused severe damage and loss of life, individuals like Matt Van Swol from Asheville, North Carolina, shared how the feature helped them stay connected during the aftermath.
Hurricane Milton is forecast to bring devastating storm surges, potentially exceeding 10 feet, far more than the surge from Hurricane Helene. Authorities are urging residents to be prepared, and iOS 18's satellite feature may offer an essential communication tool when needed most.