When the Signal Drops: How Remote Satellite Connectivity is Saving Lives.

Australia’s outback is vast and beautiful, unlike anywhere else in the world. But along with the outback’s allure comes risk: bushfires, floods, cyclones, getting lost, vehicle breakdowns, or medical emergencies when you are far from help. Traditional mobile network tower coverage only reaches so far (about 35-40% of landmass reliably), leaving many rural and remote areas vulnerable during emergencies.

Recent technological advances – especially in satellite-to-mobile (STM) SMS messaging and Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite feature are changing that picture. These innovations may provide another backup method of communication during disaster or emergency situations. 

Already across the world numerous examples are coming out where both technologies have saved lives.  Apple’s Emergency SOS satellite feature is credited with saving the lives of numerous lost hikers, with an Australian example seeing two travelers bogged on a remote North Queensland road during the wet season. While in the United States, SpaceX’s Starlink STM technology was used to restore emergency messaging and alerts in the wake of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. Both cases highlight how satellite-enabled communication can step in when traditional networks are either not available or fail.

The key advances and what they mean

The two biggest recent developments in satellite emergency connectivity in Australia, especially for remote areas are discussed below.

Satellite to Mobile (STM)

This year Telstra launched a STM text messaging service in collaboration with Starlink. This gives users the ability to send/receive texts even where traditional mobile coverage is out of range.  

While messaging via satellites has been available in the past, it always required an additional device (AirAgri, Zoleo etc.) to create the connection. STM removes the need for these devices and only requires a standard mobile phone handset. Currently it works on only a limited range of mobile devices (iPhone 14+, Samsung S22 onwards), with the correct phone settings configured and requires a Telstra post-paid account. Therefore there is still a need to consider if STM is the most appropriate option for you and your needs.

For people stranded, or living outside tower coverage, this provides minimal but vital communication using text. Even the basic ability to send “I’m OK” or “Need help” improves safety greatly.  It’s important to remember you can’t text 000 services using STM.

Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature

In May 2023, Apple made this feature available in Australia for all iPhone 14 onward models. It allows users outside mobile tower & Wi-Fi coverage to send messages to an emergency service centre and share your location via satellite. More information on the Apple Emergency SOS service is available here.

Real-life examples

Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite assists remote Cape Melville rescue 

In April 2025, two travelers became bogged on a closed road in Cape Melville National Park, Far North Queensland, one of Australia’s most isolated regions with minimal mobile coverage. Fortunately, they carried an iPhone with Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite feature.

When they initiated an SOS, their alert was sent to Apple’s Emergency Response Centre. Trained staff gathered key details and then relayed them to Queensland Police. Using this information, officers from Hope Vale, north of Cooktown, set out in search of the pair, but the roads were closed and impassable due to wet weather. A rescue helicopter eventually spotted the pair and was able to successfully rescue them.

Queensland Police mentioned when travelling in remote locations to ensure you have a satellite phone or personal locator beacon, recovery gear, spare parts, first aid, and adequate food, water and fuel.

STM keeps communities connected during Hurricane Helene.  

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene tore through parts of North Carolina in the U.S.A, knocking out mobile towers and power lines for hundreds of thousands of residents. In fact, up to 74% of the network mobile towers were knocked out of service. For many, traditional communications disappeared just as emergency alerts and coordination were most needed.

In response, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) gave SpaceX’s Starlink and T-Mobile emergency approval to activate their new satellite to mobile service. This technology allowed Starlink satellites to beam basic text messages directly to ordinary mobile phones, even in areas with no surviving ground networks.

While globally, STM is still in its early rollout, the technology brought vital connectivity back to blacked-out communities. Residents could receive storm updates, confirm the safety of loved ones, and provide information to emergency responders.

Challenges and limitations

To make the most of these tools, there are still some constraints to understand:

• Device requirements: Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite is only available on iPhone 14 and subsequent models with the latest iOS updates. Telstra’s STM service only works on certain model phones, needs correct phone configuration, and requires a post-paid plan.  
• Line-of-sight to sky: Satellite communication needs a clear view of the sky. Dense trees, mountains, or deep valleys can block signals, making it harder to connect in bushland or rugged terrain.  
• Messaging only: STM enables basic text messages, not phone or video calls. Messages can take additional time to send and receive. You cannot text 000. 
• Power and battery: Devices need to be charged and powered. In emergencies, battery management becomes critical. A flat phone is useless, so carrying spare power banks or solar chargers is vital.  
• Awareness and training: Many people don’t even know these features exist, let alone how to use them. Without setting up emergency contacts, medical ID, or practicing the steps, precious time could be lost in a crisis. In fact, Apple allows users to demo the emergency satellite service on their phone. 

Preparing for remote travel

If you’re travelling through rural or remote Australia, preparation is still essential. Always:

• consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB/EPIRB) or a satellite communicator device
• let someone know your travel plans and expected return.  
• pack extra water, food, fuel, and first aid supplies.  
• keep your devices charged and consider a power bank or solar charger.  

Where we are heading

Satellite-enabled technologies are reshaping how we may stay safe when the unexpected happens, whether being trapped by a bushfire or facing a cyclone. But while technology is evolving fast, the golden rule remains – don’t rely on one solution alone.

A layered approach and traditional preparation (like carrying an EPIRB or satellite phone, telling someone your plans, and packing essentials) backed up by new tools such as Apple’s Emergency SOS and STM services, offers the best chance of staying connected and safe.

For more practical advice on getting prepared before emergencies strike, visit Regional Tech Hub’s Emergency Preparedness page, packed with essential resources.  

At the Regional Tech Hub we aim to provide timely, factual information about new emerging technologies that impact regional, rural and remote connectivity. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date.