Praying for Florida ! Many phones do have a satellite connection nowadays built in the little device. Please look into your phone menu for Emergency SOS. You or your neighbor with a newer iphone might have that free feature up and running if needed. Coming from a hi-tech old Royal family, my grandfather Dr.h.c. Carl Hermann Roderbourg founded the VARTA Battery Empire in Europe – the batteries that are in every BMW – together with the BMW owner Quand, I investigated the modern satellite communication methods for you.

There are a few ways to connect your phone to a satellite for emergency services:

1. Built-in Satellite Connectivity:

• iPhone 14 and later: These models have built-in satellite connectivity that allows you to send emergency SOS messages via satellite when you’re outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. To activate it, try calling or texting emergency services. If you don’t have cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, you’ll see an “Emergency SOS via satellite” option. Follow the onscreen instructions to connect to a satellite and send a message to an emergency dispatch center.  
• Android phones with Bullitt Satellite Messenger: Some newer Android phones, like the Motorola Defy 2, have integrated Bullitt Satellite Messenger, which offers similar functionality to Apple’s Emergency SOS. You’ll need a subscription to the service, but it allows two-way messaging via satellite.  

2. Dedicated Satellite Communication Devices:

• Satellite Messengers: Devices like the Garmin inReach Mini 2, ACR Bivy Stick, and Spot X provide satellite connectivity for messaging and SOS. They typically connect to your phone via Bluetooth and use an app to access your contacts and send messages. These devices usually require a subscription for satellite services.  
• Satellite Hotspots: Devices like the Iridium GO! create a satellite Wi-Fi hotspot that your phone can connect to. This allows you to use your phone for voice calls, text messages, and email over satellite, but it’s a more expensive option.

Important things to keep in mind:

• Clear view of the sky: Satellite connections require a clear view of the sky, so you may need to move to an open area to connect.  
• Subscription fees: Most satellite communication services require a subscription.
• Limited functionality: Satellite connections are typically slower and less reliable than cellular or Wi-Fi, so you may not be able to send large files or make high-quality voice calls.
• Emergency services: When using satellite for emergency services, be prepared to provide your location and a brief description of the emergency.

Remember, satellite communication should be reserved for situations where you don’t have cellular or Wi-Fi coverage and need to contact emergency services or loved ones.