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SOS Only is a cellular-service status; it does not mean your iPhone is connected to a satellite. It indicates that your carrier’s regular service is unavailable, though an emergency call may still connect through another carrier. Emergency SOS via satellite is a separate emergency-text feature for supported iPhones when an ordinary emergency call cannot connect.
SOS Only and Emergency SOS via satellite: the difference
| Feature or status | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| SOS Only | Your iPhone does not have full cellular service from your own provider. An emergency call may be possible through another carrier network if one is available. | If you need emergency help, try calling emergency services. The status alone does not show that satellite service is active. |
| Emergency SOS via satellite | A satellite-based emergency text flow for eligible iPhones when cellular and Wi-Fi are unavailable and a regular emergency call cannot connect. | Try the emergency call first. If it fails, follow the on-screen satellite messaging prompts and move to a place with a clear view of the sky and horizon. |
Apple shows a separate satellite status icon when satellite features are available in your location on a supported iPhone. An SOS or SOS Only indicator is not that satellite icon. See Apple’s guide to status icons and its information about emergency calling when cellular service is unavailable.
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What to do when you need emergency help
- Try an ordinary emergency call. If SOS Only appears, do not assume there is no way to call: another carrier network might be available. Apple advises attempting the emergency call even when your carrier’s network is unavailable.
- If the call does not connect, use the satellite option. Follow the iPhone’s on-screen instructions to start Emergency Text via Satellite, if it is available for your device and location.
- Follow the prompts and stay available. The satellite flow asks questions to help communicate what is happening. Apple says information shared can include your answers, location (including elevation), and battery level. Medical ID and emergency-contact details may also be shared if you have set them up.
- Keep the phone positioned for a connection. Go outside and maintain a clear view of the sky and horizon. Trees, buildings, or other obstructions can interfere with connecting.
Apple’s satellite connection instructions provide the current on-screen steps. Availability and interface details can vary by location and software version.
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SOS Only tells you that your iPhone lacks full service from your own cellular provider. It does not tell you whether another carrier can handle an emergency call, and it does not confirm that your phone can use satellite service. The availability of an alternate network depends on where you are and what networks are present.
#1 Best Overall
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging even in areas with no cell coverage (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Send two-way messages globally; easily text back and forth directly with friends via the Garmin Messenger app, even when you’re out of cellular coverage. (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.)
- Group messaging via the Garmin Messenger smartphone app lets you share your adventures with multiple contacts simultaneously — and have group text chats with friends and family
- Check in with contacts directly by using preset messages that do not count toward your allotted text messages (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Share your GPS location (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
Satellite service is a separate capability. Apple says it is available on iPhone 14 or later, subject to software, supported-location, and connection requirements. The feature is intended for situations where cellular and Wi-Fi are unavailable and a normal emergency call fails. The current device and software requirements and availability information should be checked for your location; supported countries and minimum iOS versions can change, and regional approvals or market requirements may affect access.
Prepare before going somewhere without coverage
- Set up Medical ID and add emergency contacts so relevant information is ready if an emergency occurs.
- Find the Emergency SOS satellite demo in Settings and try it before a remote trip. The demo is a practice experience; it does not place a real emergency call.
- Plan for the possibility that terrain, heavy foliage, buildings, or other obstructions prevent a satellite connection. Satellite access is not guaranteed simply because you have a compatible iPhone.
Apple explains preparation and the demo in its Emergency SOS via satellite instructions.
Rank #2
- Service plans required - as low as $4.99 per month for SOS satellite assist
- Provides advanced 2-way satellite-enabled messaging. Compatible with iOS 14 and Android 10 and later smartphones
- Stay in contact wherever you go—reliable satellite coverage keeps you firmly on the grid even if you're off the edge of the map, ensuring you're in touch with those who matter
- Simply press the check-in button and send your coordinates or a message to your loved ones, giving them peace of mind whilst you do your thing
- SOS assist allows you to check in and trigger SOS without a connection; unlimited SOS included with every service plan
If you start an emergency call or satellite session by accident
Do not hang up or end the session. Wait until a responder answers and explain that emergency help is not needed. Apple gives this instruction for accidental emergency calls; follow any on-screen guidance if you have started the satellite flow.
Apple’s wording is: “If an emergency call has been made and you don’t need emergency services, don’t hang up. Wait until a responder answers, then explain that you don’t need help.” The guidance appears in Apple’s emergency calling support.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Compact, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.).Special Feature:Bluetooth.Water Resistant: Yes
- Navigate back to where you started by using TracBack routing
- Share your location with loved ones back home at any time (active satellite subscription required) by using your MapShare page or with your coordinates embedded in your messages
- Get accurate heading information using the digital compass — even when you’re not moving
- Sync with the Garmin Explore app and website on your compatible smartphone for trip planning and topographical mapping, and create waypoints, courses, activities and collections you can sync to your device
Rank #3
- Always connected: Travel beyond cell coverage with the safety and preparedness platform that delivers peace of mind, everywhere. Pair ZOLEO with your smartphone and stay connected with your Safety Circle, including adventurers, loved ones, and work teams responsible for duty of care. Send text messages and emails over the Iridium satellite network, cellular, or Wi-Fi using the lowest-cost network available (service plan required).
- Refreshed design: Stay connected with the ZOLEO experience you trust, now with a fresh new colour for easy identification, USB-C charging for compatibility with universal cords, and faster, more secure Bluetooth pairing.
- Instant Emergency SOS: SOS activates immediately on button press with no countdown delay. Connects to 24/7 emergency monitoring center. Access Medical Assist for non-emergency help.
- USB-C charging: Charges via universal USB-C, compatible with most cables, power banks, and car chargers.
- Optional Travel Risk Management Coverage: Feel more secure wherever you go with a Field Rescue Membership from Global Rescue. Affordably priced, this travel risk management add-on offers immediate medical coverage for safe extraction and transportation to the nearest capable medical facility.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
