If you try to send a satellite message to a contact who doesn't have an iPhone 14 or later running iOS 18, there are a few things that can happen:
iMessage
- If you're sending an iMessage, it will be delivered as a normal iMessage if your contact has a newer iPhone with iOS 18.- If your contact has an older iPhone not compatible with iOS 18, the iMessage will be delivered as an SMS text message instead[1][4].
SMS
- If you send an SMS text message via satellite, it will be delivered to your contact's iPhone or Android device as a normal SMS[4].- However, you can only receive incoming SMS messages from pre-designated emergency contacts when connected via satellite. Regular SMS messages from other contacts won't be received[4].
So in summary:
- iMessages will be delivered as iMessages or fallback to SMS
- Outgoing SMS will work but incoming SMS is limited to emergency contacts
- Your contact needs an iPhone 14 or later with iOS 18 to fully utilize the new satellite messaging features like sending iMessages, emojis, photos, etc. via satellite
The satellite messaging feature is currently only available on iPhone 14 and later models running iOS 18. Older iPhone models and Android devices are not compatible[4][5].
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ALry4Tv1Ek
[2] https://www.satellitetoday.com/connectivity/2024/06/11/apple-expands-satellite-messaging-capabilities-with-ios-18/
[3] https://explorersweb.com/apple-ios-18-will-allow-satellite-texting-for-u-s-users/
[4] https://www.tomsguide.com/how-to-send-satellite-messages-iPhone
[5] https://www.zdnet.com/article/your-iphone-is-getting-this-life-saving-messaging-feature-with-ios-18-and-its-not-ai/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/iphone/comments/1dcs0x6/dont_have_a_connection_ios_18_lets_you_send/
[7] https://support.apple.com/en-us/105097
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/gadgets/comments/1dgqjwb/how_messages_via_satellite_will_work_on_ios_18/
Are there any workarounds to send messages to someone with an older iOS version
If you need to send messages to someone with an older iOS version and the satellite messaging feature is not supported, there are a few workarounds you can consider:
Use Standard SMS
- Fallback to SMS: If your contact has an older iPhone that does not support the satellite feature, you can still send standard SMS messages. Ensure that SMS messaging is enabled on your device and that you are connected to a cellular network.Utilize Third-Party Messaging Apps
- Alternative Messaging Apps: Consider using third-party messaging applications like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal. These apps often have broader compatibility across different devices and operating systems, allowing you to communicate regardless of the iOS version.Email as an Alternative
- Send an Email: If immediate messaging isn't crucial, sending an email can be a reliable alternative. This method is universally accessible across devices and platforms.Pre-Populate SMS Links
- HTML Links for Pre-Population: If you're developing a web page or app, you can create links that pre-populate SMS messages. For instance, using the format `Send Message` allows users to click and start a message with pre-filled text. This can streamline communication but requires some technical setup[2].These methods ensure that you can still communicate effectively with contacts who may not have the latest iOS features available.
Citations:[1] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255193928
[2] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/6480462/how-to-pre-populate-the-sms-body-text-via-an-html-link
[3] https://www.tomsguide.com/how-to-send-satellite-messages-iPhone
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/applehelp/comments/16u1kvu/ios_17_imessage_no_longer_collapsing_minimizing/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-6H68iP6Vc
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1I2nBvP8Tag
[7] https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/ios-18-is-here-and-it-brings-these-new-features-to-your-iphone/
[8] https://forums.developer.apple.com/forums/thread/122448