Apple has released iOS 18.5, which for the first time expands emergency satellite communications capabilities to iPhone 13 owners. The feature was previously available to iPhone 14 or later users. In addition, users are also receiving several smaller updates.
Apple has released iOS 18.5, which for the first time expands emergency satellite communications capabilities to iPhone 13 owners. The feature was previously available to iPhone 14 or later users. In addition, users are also receiving several smaller updates.
The iPhone Emergency Satellite System is designed for use in critical moments when cellular or Wi-Fi is unavailable. It allows people to contact emergency services, send texts via satellite, share information with their emergency contacts, or call for roadside assistance.
The iOS 18.5 update focuses on providing access to satellite services from carriers like T-Mobile (with Starlink). You can check if you have access to this feature in the Cellular menu in your iPhone's Settings, TechCrunch reports .
This feature has already saved many lives. For example, after Hurricane Helen swept through the southeastern United States in October 2024, people left without electricity and cell service turned their iPhones into satellite phones , which became a lifeline for them.
While the expansion of satellite emergency services for iPhone 13 owners is the most notable addition to iOS 18.5, iPhone users are also getting a few smaller updates.
This includes the addition of a new feature to Screen Time , Apple's parental control software that notifies parents if their child correctly enters the parent passcode to access Screen Time permissions.
Other improvements include a revamped Mail app that makes it easier to access All Mail as a separate tab; a new Pride wallpaper ; and an easier way to subscribe to content from the Apple TV app on your Smart TV or connected device.
Additionally, Apple has fixed a bug that caused the Apple Vision Pro app to launch with a black screen when downloaded from the App Store, as well as other bugs with Siri, enterprise apps not launching, and more.
iOS 18.5 was released alongside iPadOS 18.5, which mainly included bug fixes; visionOS 2.5; watchOS 11.5; and security-focused updates for macOS Ventura 13.7.6 (22H625) and macOS Sonoma 14.7.6.
Previously, dev.ua reported that Apple plans to entrust AI with battery management on iPhones to extend their battery life.
