iPhone 16e. When I am 10-15 miles offshore in the Mid Atlantic the Satellite options is not available on the phone? This is the sole reason I bought a new phone. Several friends are discovery the same issue in their iPhones ? Someone mentioned you have to be on land for this feature to be an option. Why would Apple do this if true. And if true they should make it very clear up front!
iPhone 16e, iOS 18
There are regional restrictions that still apply due to regulatory requirements as detailed in the service.
For example Messages via Satellite shows:
Messages via satellite is available in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Apple uses the GlobalStar satellite network. As with any Satellite device, coverage will depend the satellite network used. For a comparison of the major ones you can find more information here:
https://crateclub.com/blogs/loadout/do-satellite-phones-work-in-the-ocean-a-comprehensive-guide?pb=0
Some cell carriers provide Satellite service that will use a different Satellite network. Your phone supports carrier provided satellite features as well, so check with your provider to see what they offer. For example T-Mobile is using the Starlink satellites for coverage with their satellite service.
About carrier-provided satellite features on iPhone - Apple Support
There are regional restrictions that still apply due to regulatory requirements as detailed in the service.
For example Messages via Satellite shows:
Messages via satellite is available in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Apple uses the GlobalStar satellite network. As with any Satellite device, coverage will depend the satellite network used. For a comparison of the major ones you can find more information here:
https://crateclub.com/blogs/loadout/do-satellite-phones-work-in-the-ocean-a-comprehensive-guide?pb=0
Some cell carriers provide Satellite service that will use a different Satellite network. Your phone supports carrier provided satellite features as well, so check with your provider to see what they offer. For example T-Mobile is using the Starlink satellites for coverage with their satellite service.
About carrier-provided satellite features on iPhone - Apple Support
Apple doesn’t specifically document the details (that I can find), though there are various reports that satellite communications attempts from sufficiently far offshore are geofenced, yes.
I’d assume approximately within US territorial waters: 12 nmi / 22 km / 14 mi.
Ask Apple Support for the official details, and let us know.
you’ll likely find the feature no longer available outside of territorial waters.
Satellite feature missing?
