When the grid goes dark and your bars disappear, some newer phones can still reach for help — by talking directly to satellites.
By: Harrison Kral
Family Handyman’s Editorial Process
Published: Oct. 14, 2024
On a typical day, most of us rely heavily on our cell phones for navigation, communication, and information. In a real emergency, that little device can become the difference between danger and safety.
But what happens when you’re stranded on a back road, hiking in the mountains, or stuck in a storm with no cell service and no WiFi? Until recently, the answer was simple and terrifying: you were on your own.
That’s changing. Certain newer iPhones and Android phones can now connect directly to satellites in orbit and use that signal to reach emergency services, send your location, or request help — even when traditional networks are unavailable.
This guide walks you through what satellite connectivity is, when it works, and exactly how to use it on supported iPhone and Android devices in a crisis.
On This Article
- How Phone-to-Satellite Emergency Connection Works
- How to Connect an iPhone to Satellites
- How to Connect an Android (Pixel 9) to Satellites
- When & Where Satellite Features Work Best
- Limitations & Safety Tips
- How to Prepare Your Phone Before an Emergency
How Phone-to-Satellite Emergency Connection Works
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