San Francisco, California – Apple unveiled major updates at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, with a focus on innovations for outdoor enthusiasts venturing off the beaten path. The forthcoming iOS 18 release, set to launch this fall, will allow U.S. users with an iPhone 14 or newer to send texts and emojis over iMessage and SMS even without cell service or WiFi.
While Apple did not disclose details on potential costs or limitations for sending these messages, the company has previously offered satellite emergency texting without charges. The new satellite texting feature in iOS 18 is expected to require clear sky views in open terrain to function effectively, cautioning against obstructions like foliage, hills, or mountains.
Among the updates included in the iOS 18 release are new tools tailored for hikers and forest bathers. Apple Maps will integrate thousands of hiking routes across national parks in the U.S., allowing users to filter routes by length and elevation. Hikers can also create custom routes, access them offline, and organize them in a new “Places Library.”
Kevin Long, CEO of the camping app the Dyrt, lauded the announced updates as a significant advancement in encouraging people to embrace the outdoors, especially as interest in camping surges in the U.S. The improved connectivity aims to enhance safety for first-time campers exploring dispersed camping areas since 2020.
Justin Wood, REI’s co-op director of experiences, emphasized that while staying in touch through messaging can bring peace of mind to loved ones, proper trip planning and preparation remain crucial. Wood underscored the importance of planning ahead, meticulous preparation, and selecting activities that align with one’s skill level to prevent issues, regardless of available technology.
Notably, before the official launch of iOS 18 as a software update for iPhone Xs and newer models, a public beta version will be available for testing through the Apple Beta Software Program next month. The new features and advancements introduced in iOS 18 aim to enhance the outdoor experience for tech-savvy adventurers and provide added safety and convenience in remote areas.