Apple's satellite features were originally designed for emergencies, allowing iPhone users to contact emergency services when cellular and Wi-Fi coverage is unavailable. With recent versions of iOS, Apple has expanded those capabilities to include sending and receiving messages via satellite. This makes it possible to stay in touch with friends and family from remote locations where traditional networks do not reach, such as hiking trails, rural areas or offshore locations.
On Monday, Apple released multiple updates across different versions of iOS, covering devices as old as the iPhone 5s from 2013 and as new as the latest models. According to reports, the updates affect an estimated over 2 billion iPhones worldwide, making this one of Apple's broadest software pushes in years. For newer devices, Apple released iOS 26.2.1, while older phones received parallel updates such as iOS 18.7.4, iOS 16.7.13, iOS 15.8.6, and iOS 12.5.8, depending on the model.
The sci-fi-worthy tool allows real-time communications between two people who don't speak the same language. Fans are comparing it to the 'Communicator' device from Star Trek, which allows direct contact between individuals on different spaceships. The technology - which requires a connected iPhone - is also reminiscent of the green 'Universal Translator' device from TV series Futurama. At launch, Live Translation is available in English - both British English and American English - as well as French, German, Spanish and Portuguese.