iOS 18.5 Brings Life-Saving Satellite Features to iPhone 13

Apple Expands Emergency Satellite Services with iOS 18.5 Update

On Monday, Apple took a significant step in enhancing user safety by releasing iOS 18.5, which introduces emergency satellite capabilities to iPhone 13 owners for the first time. This update marks an important milestone, as these critical features were previously exclusive to those with the iPhone 14 or newer models. The 18.5 version of iOS not only broadens the accessibility of these life-saving technologies but also introduces several smaller yet valuable enhancements for Apple users.

What Are Emergency Satellite Services?

The emergency satellite system integrated into the iPhone is a lifesaving tool designed for situations where cellular service or Wi-Fi is unavailable. With it, users can contact emergency services, send text messages via satellite, share their location with emergency contacts, and call for roadside assistance. This feature has already proven beneficial, credited with saving lives by helping lost and injured hikers and rescuing people from wildfires. If you’re an iPhone user, checking whether you have access to these satellite features is easy; just navigate to the Cellular menu in your iPhone’s Settings.

Expanding Connectivity: Who Benefits?

With the iOS 18.5 update, Apple has focused on expanding access to various carriers’ satellite services. This includes partnerships with T-Mobile, which leverages Starlink technology, and Verizon, which uses AST SpaceMobile. These collaborations ensure that more users can effectively utilize these emergency services when faced with life-threatening situations.

If you’re interested in more information about these advancements and how they affect users, you can explore our articles on mobile technology and satellite communications.

Additional Features in iOS 18.5

While the expansion of satellite emergency services is certainly the highlight of the update, iOS 18.5 also introduces several smaller but noteworthy enhancements. One addition is a new feature for Screen Time, Apple’s parental control software. This feature notifies parents if their child correctly enters the parent’s passcode to obtain access to Screen Time permissions.

Furthermore, the Mail app receives a facelift, making accessing the “All Mail” category easier with its dedicated tab. Users can also look forward to a new Pride wallpaper that celebrates diversity, as well as an improved subscription process for content via the Apple TV app on smart TVs and other connected devices.

Notably, Apple has addressed various bugs with this update, including a bug that caused the Apple Vision Pro app to launch with a black screen when downloaded from the App Store. Additional fixes include enhancements to Siri and resolution of issues causing enterprise apps not to launch correctly.

The Bigger Picture

iOS 18.5 was released simultaneously with iPadOS 18.5, which focuses on bug fixes, visionOS 2.5, watchOS 11.5, and several security updates aimed at improving macOS Ventura 13.7.6 and macOS Sonoma 14.7.6. With these continuous updates, Apple showcases its commitment to user safety, accessibility, and a better overall experience.

The introduction of emergency satellite capabilities to iPhone 13 users is more than just a software update; it’s a reminder that technology can play an essential role in ensuring safety in critical situations.

For more insights into Apple’s latest offerings and other tech-related news, don’t hesitate to check out our latest updates on Apple and software releases.

As we applaud these advancements, it’s crucial to remain informed about the latest tools and technologies that can help us navigate both everyday challenges and emergency situations effectively.

Follow AsumeTech on

More From Category

More Stories Today

Leave a Reply