About carrier-provided satellite features on iPhone
There are multiple ways to stay connected on iPhone while you're off the grid with no traditional cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
Satellite features on iPhone
With iPhone 14 or later (any model), Apple provides satellite features, in partnership with Globalstar1, to help you text emergency services, request roadside assistance, message friends and family, and share your location.
Learn more about Apple satellite features
Additionally, some carriers have enhanced their cellular network with satellites enabled by partnerships they have established with satellite providers, like Starlink.
Use carrier-provided satellite features
Before you go off the grid, check that your iPhone can benefit from carrier-provided satellite features. You need:
iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 16, iPhone 15, iPhone 14, or iPhone 13 (any model)
The latest version of iOS
Some carriers might require a supported cellular plan
When your iPhone is using a carrier-provided satellite feature, iPhone will display a "SAT" in the status bar.
In addition to messaging, some carriers might allow limited data on select apps while connected to a carrier-provided satellite network. Carrier fees and data rates may apply.
For more information about carrier-provided satellite features and supported countries or regions, contact your carrier.
Use Apple satellite features
Even if your carrier network offers satellite features, you can still use Apple satellite features on iPhone 14 or later in select regions when you are outside of traditional cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. You can connect with Apple satellite features through the Connection Assistant. Or, dial or text emergency services when you're off the grid.
Connect through Connection Assistant
Turn off carrier-provided satellite features
Open the Settings app.
Tap Cellular, then Cellular Data Options. If you have a dual SIM, instead tap your carrier or phone number.
Tap Satellite, then turn it off.
If the Satellite option doesn't appear, your carrier might not offer or support satellite features and your iPhone won't use any carrier-provided satellite features. If your carrier allows limited data on select apps, you might also be able to turn off satellite data for those apps. Contact your carrier for more information.
During certain disaster situations, your carrier may provide cellular connectivity to iPhone models using their satellite capabilities, even if you've turned them off for everyday use and "SAT" doesn't appear in the status bar.
Satellite network for Apple satellite features provided by Globalstar, Inc. and its affiliates or third-party network providers. Apple satellite features aren't available in all countries or regions.