In 2024, it will be crucial to remain connected amid emergencies, particularly with Hurricane Milton on its way. There are multiple ways to send messages from your iPhone even in situations when regular cellular connectivity is not available or cell phone towers are down. When communication is crucial during natural disasters like hurricanes, knowing these backup techniques can literally save lives.
Here’s how to use your iPhone to send messages without cellular connection so you can keep in touch throughout Hurricane Milton.
KEYPOINT: You can connect via satellite with any model of iPhone 14 or later, but you’ll need to update your phone to iOS 18 to use this feature. The most recent version of iOS is also required for message recipients. Users of Pixel 9 phones running Android also have a few choices.
Send iMessages using Wi-Fi
You are still able to send iMessages to other iPhone users even if you do not have cellular service. iMessage uses internet-based operations instead of cellular data. How to do it is as follows:
- Make Sure Your iMessage Is On: Make sure that iMessage is turned on by going to Settings > Messages.
- Join a Wireless Network: In the event that mobile towers are unavailable, Wi-Fi might still work. Any available open Wi-Fi network can be used, as well as your home network and public hotspots.
- Transmit Your iMessage: Launch the Messages app, choose the person you want to message, and start typing. It will send provided they have enabled iMessage as well.
Only iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices that support iMessage can utilise this feature. If the recipient is using an Android phone, you’ll need another solution.
Use a Wi-Fi-capable messaging app
Using messaging apps over Wi-Fi during Hurricane Milton is an additional option to stay in touch without cellular connection. Among the most widely used apps are: Signal, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp
Sending messages using these apps is dependent on having a Wi-Fi connection. Install one of these applications and get in touch with friends and family in advance if you know that Hurricane Milton is coming.
How to Use WhatsApp:
- If you haven’t already, download WhatsApp from the App Store.
- Launch the application, enter your phone number, and create a profile.
- To send messages to contacts who are also WhatsApp users, use the Wi-Fi network.
- The procedures are the same for other messaging apps, so you can use whichever one your friends and family are on.
Use Apple’s New Satellite-Based Emergency SOS
The Emergency SOS via Satellite feature is one of the most innovative additions to the latest iPhone models. This function is crucial in the event that you are totally disconnected from cellular service and Wi-Fi networks during Hurricane Milton. This is how it operates:
- Verify Compatibility: The iPhone 14 and later models support this capability. You are able to use the satellite messaging feature if you possess one of these devices.
- Turn on the Emergency SOS through Satellite: An notice urging you to attempt Emergency SOS will show up if you are without signal. Point your phone in the direction of a satellite by following the on-screen directions. Your phone may need to connect for a minute or two before doing so.
- Forward Your Urgent Note: After connecting, you can send a message to emergency services or pre-designated contacts to alert them of your situation.
Note: This feature is designed primarily for emergencies and will not support general texting or chatting with friends. This feature is crucial when you’re stranded in areas where Wi-Fi and cellular networks are entirely down due to the hurricane.
Configure Wi-Fi calling prior to the storm
It can be helpful to enable Wi-Fi Calling in advance if you anticipate losing mobile service. Even if your carrier’s network is down, your iPhone can make and receive calls and send SMS messages over Wi-Fi calling.
How to Turn on Wi-Fi Calling:
- Navigate to Phone > Settings > Wi-Fi Calling.
- Turn this iPhone’s Wi-Fi calling on and off.
- To finish the setup, adhere to the prompts displayed on screen.
Now, even in the absence of cellular connection, your iPhone can send and receive text messages over any Wi-Fi network. For messaging Android users or anyone who isn’t on iMessage, this is quite helpful.
Apps for Offline Messaging
Certain apps use peer-to-peer networks or Bluetooth to connect to neighbouring devices and send messages even when there’s no internet connection. Bridgefy and FireChat are well-known instances.
To utilise Bridgefy:
- Get the app from the App Store.
- Launch the app, then create a profile.
- Using the app, you may message other Bridgefy users up to 300 feet away over Bluetooth.
This approach is particularly helpful if you don’t have internet access and are in a public place during an emergency, such as a neighbourhood or shelter.
Employ a Handheld Satellite Messenger
Investing in a portable satellite messenger such as the Garmin inReach or Spot X could be worthwhile if you are in a hurricane-prone area. Even in the absence of Wi-Fi or cellular coverage, you can use these gadgets to send messages via satellite and pair them with your iPhone via Bluetooth.
In summary
Even if cellular networks are unavailable, it’s imperative to remain connected during Hurricane Milton. When conventional means fail, knowing how to send messages from your iPhone over Wi-Fi, satellite services, or offline apps can help you stay in contact with loved ones and emergency services.
To get ready for the storm:
- Make that the Emergency SOS, Wi-Fi Calling, and iMessage functions on your iPhone are turned on.
- Install substitute messaging programs, such as Signal or WhatsApp.
- Consider downloading offline messaging apps or investing in a satellite communicator.
