iPhone 13 Gets Satellite Messaging! Apple’s iOS 18.5 Update Brings New Life to Older Devices
Apple has just released iOS 18.5, and it's bringing a much-anticipated feature to older iPhone models! While the update includes cosmetic enhancements like a new Pride Harmony wallpaper and usability tweaks to the Mail app, the biggest news is the extension of satellite messaging support to the iPhone 13 lineup.
Previously limited to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series, satellite messaging allows users to send SOS messages and even regular texts when out of cellular or Wi-Fi range. Now, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max owners can also benefit from this crucial connectivity feature.
This update specifically enables access to “carrier-provided” satellite features. Currently, T-Mobile is the frontrunner in the US, offering the service through its Starlink-powered satellite network. The service is currently free to try in the US until July.
Beyond satellite messaging, iOS 18.5 also introduces a handy notification for parents when a Screen Time passcode is used on their child's device, enhancing parental control features. The Mail app also receives some love with updated settings for displaying contact photos and a more discoverable “All Mail” category.
Here's a quick rundown of the key improvements in iOS 18.5:
- Satellite Messaging for iPhone 13: Stay connected even when off the grid.
- New Pride Harmony Wallpaper: Celebrate Pride Month with a vibrant new design.
- Screen Time Notifications: Parents receive alerts when a Screen Time passcode is used.
- Mail App Tweaks: Improved settings and discoverability for accessing all emails.
To update your iPhone, simply navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and tap Update Now. The update officially rolled out on May 12th.
With Apple gearing up for its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, where iOS 19 is expected to be unveiled, iOS 18.5 serves as a noteworthy update that brings significant functionality improvements, particularly to older devices. While we anticipate what the future holds for iPhones don't miss out on this update!
What do you think about iOS 18.5? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Related issues news
What is pride harmony wallpaper?
Apple's Pride Harmony wallpaper has bold, colorful stripes that change position as you move, lock or unlock your device. You can find it in Settings > Wallpaper or by long-pressing on your lock screen. If you're an Apple Watch owner, you'll find a corresponding Pride Harmony watch face in watchOS 11.5.
When is iOS 18.5 coming out?
Apple released iOS 18.5 on May 12, more than a month after the company released iOS 18.4. While that update brought more emoji to all iPhones, the latest update adds just a few small changes and a new Pride wallpaper to your iPhone.
What is the pride harmony wallpaper on an iPhone?
With iOS 18.5, the iPhone gets a new Pride Harmony wallpaper with colours that have the ability to change position if the device is moved, locked, or unlocked. It matches the new Pride Harmony face for Apple Watch, which has also been added with the latest watchOS 10.5 update.
When is 18.5 coming out?
iOS 18.5 Release Date My money's on Monday, May 12, though if there's no sign of it soon after 10 a.m. Pacific, then it'll be Tuesday, May 13.
