Apple is giving older iPhone users another year of free access to its satellite features.
The extension was quietly revealed in a footnote in Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro press release. It means compatible iPhones dating back to the iPhone 14 series can continue using Emergency SOS via satellite, Messages via satellite, Find My via satellite, and Roadside Assistance via satellite at no extra cost for another year.
There is one important requirement: the iPhone must have been activated before September 9, 2026.
The extension covers the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 generations, although satellite features are only available in supported countries and regions.
Another extension for the iPhone 14
This is the third time Apple has extended free satellite access for the iPhone 14 series, which introduced Emergency SOS via satellite in 2022.
The iPhone 15 series received its first extension last year following the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup. This year’s announcement also marks the first free-access extension for the iPhone 16 generation.
Apple originally introduced satellite connectivity as a way for users to stay connected when they are outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. Emergency SOS can connect users with emergency services, while Messages via satellite allows communication when conventional networks aren’t available. Find My can share a user’s location, and Roadside Assistance can help connect users with roadside service.
Satellite connectivity does have limitations. Apple says users need a clear view of the sky and horizon, while trees and other obstructions can interfere with the connection. Messages can also take longer to send because satellite connections have limited bandwidth.
For eligible owners, however, the takeaway is simple: if your iPhone 14, 15, or 16 was activated before September 9, 2026, Apple is giving you another year of satellite features for free.
Apple hasn’t indicated in the announcement what will happen after that additional year.