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Select Your Carrier
Some steps vary by carrier. Select yours for personalized instructions.
1
Device Requirements
Check Device Compatibility
Confirm your phone supports satellite messaging
Update Your Software
Install the latest iOS or Android version
Verify Active SIM
Satellite requires an active cellular plan
2
App & Feature Setup
Important
You must enable iMessage BEFORE going off-grid. It cannot be turned on without connectivity.
Turn On iMessage
Required for Apple satellite messaging
Try the Satellite Demo
Practice connecting before you need it
Download Offline Maps
Have maps ready even if satellite is slow
3
Emergency & Contacts
Set Up Emergency Contacts
They can message you first when you're off-grid
Enable Family Sharing
Family can reach you via SMS automatically
Tell Contacts to Update iOS
They need iOS 18 to receive your iMessages
4
Pre-Departure
Charge Your Phone Fully
Satellite connections can drain battery faster
Pack a Battery Pack
Extra power for extended off-grid time
Share Your Plans
Tell someone your route and return time