Apple takes a ‘byte’ out of Garmin with satellite messaging

Photo: Unsplash // Antonio Groß

Apple's new feature allows iPhones to send satellite texts, sparking debate on the reliability of smartphones versus dedicated backcountry devices.

PARK CITY, Utah — Apple’s release of the iOS 18 public beta enables iPhones to send satellite texts, raising questions about the necessity of dedicated backcountry communication tools like the Garmin inReach. The update was announced on June 10 at the Worldwide Developers Conference and released in public beta on July 15.

The iOS 18 allows satellite text communication between two iPhones, potentially eliminating the need for search-and-rescue operations. It is available for iPhone SE (2nd generation or later) and supports unlimited messages.

One comparison to look out for will be the battery life of the various devices on the market since users know that it is of the utmost value. If your device is dead, it makes things a whole lot harder. Time will tell!