iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users will receive an additional year of complimentary access to satellite connectivity features, as indicated in a recent update on Apple’s newsroom regarding the iPhone 17. According to the announcement, users who activated their devices in countries that support these satellite features before 12 a.m. PT on September 9, 2025, will be eligible for this extension.
Apple introduced its Emergency SOS service via satellite shortly after the launch of the iPhone 14 series in November 2022. Initially, the service was intended to be free for the first two years following activation. This continued to apply to users of iPhone 14 models and newer. In 2023, Apple granted an additional year of free service for existing iPhone 14 users, which pushed the potential billing date for early adopters to November 2025. With the recent announcement, this deadline has now been extended to November 2026.
In conjunction with these updates, Apple has enhanced its satellite messaging capabilities with the release of iOS 18, allowing users to send messages to friends and family while out of cellular range. Additionally, Apple has revealed that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 will also include satellite connectivity features.
These developments highlight Apple’s ongoing commitment to improving connectivity options for its devices, particularly in emergency situations and remote areas.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/775309/apple-iphone-14-15-satellite-connectivity-free