Power Outage Prep: 5 Smartphone Features to Set Up Now

A power outage can leave more than your lights off. If cellular networks are disrupted as well, your smartphone may lose access to calls, messages, and the internet when you need them most.

But newer smartphones have features that can help people communicate, navigate, and access important information even when traditional connections aren’t available.

Here are five features worth knowing before the next outage, including how to send messages via satellite and prepare your phone to work offline.

1. iPhone Satellite Messaging: Text Without Cell Service

Apple’s Messages via satellite lets users with an eligible iPhone 14 or later, compatible software, and an active SIM send messages without cellular service or Wi-Fi in supported regions, including the United States. Enable iMessage before losing connectivity, and check carrier support for SMS via satellite.

The feature connects directly to satellites, but users must be outdoors with a clear view of the sky and horizon. Buildings, dense trees, and other obstructions can interfere with the connection.

How to send a message via satellite

1. Open Messages when cellular and Wi-Fi are unavailable.
2. Select Use Messages via Satellite when prompted.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect and send your message.

Messages may take longer to send than regular texts, depending on conditions.

How to test satellite messaging before an outage

Apple also provides a demonstration that allows users to practice connecting without losing cellular service.

1. Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
2. Tap the Cellular button and select Satellite.
3. Select Try Demo and follow the on-screen instructions.

The Satellite menu also displays other supported features, including emergency communication options. The demonstration allows users to practice connecting but does not send an actual message.

For device compatibility and additional instructions, see Apple’s official Messages via satellite guide.

2. Android Satellite SOS: Contact Emergency Services Without Cell Coverage

Google’s Satellite SOS allows supported Pixel phones to contact emergency services when cellular and Wi-Fi connections are unavailable. Availability depends on the model, location, and service activation. Google Messages must be the default messaging app.

Unlike Apple’s Messages via satellite feature, Pixel Satellite SOS is designed for emergency communication rather than everyday texting.

How to use Satellite SOS on Google Pixel

1. Attempt to call emergency services, such as 911.
2. If the call cannot connect, select Satellite SOS when prompted.
3. Answer the emergency questions and follow the on-screen instructions to connect.

Users must be outdoors with a clear view of the sky to establish a satellite connection.

How to practice Satellite SOS

Google also provides a demonstration on supported Pixel devices.

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Safety & emergency.
3. Tap Satellite SOS and select the demonstration option.

Carrier services such as O2’s satellite connectivity for compatible smartphones provide another option in supported locations, but have separate device, plan, and coverage requirements.

For supported devices and instructions, see Google’s official Pixel Satellite SOS guide.

3. Offline Maps: Navigate Without Internet Access

Smartphones can still receive GPS signals without cellular service, but navigation apps need map data to display routes and directions.

Google Maps allows iPhone and Android users to download maps before losing connectivity. A quick test of your phone’s offline maps and saved documents can reveal missing downloads before you need them.

How to download offline maps

1. Open Google Maps.
2. Tap your profile picture and select Offline maps.
3. Select Choose your own map, choose an area, and download it.

Downloaded maps provide offline driving directions when the entire route falls within the saved area. Walking, cycling, and public transit directions are unavailable offline, along with live traffic and alternative driving routes. Downloads are unavailable in some regions, and saved maps need updating before they expire.

4. Battery Saving: Keep Your Phone Running Longer

A smartphone’s emergency features won’t help if the battery runs out.

Both iPhone and Android devices include battery-saving settings that reduce background activity and power consumption.

• On iPhone: Open Settings > Battery > Power Mode and enable Low Power Mode. Depending on the model and software version, the toggle may appear directly under Battery.
• On Android: Open Settings > Battery and enable Battery Saver or Power saving mode, depending on the device.

Reducing screen brightness and limiting unnecessary apps can also extend battery life. On supported Pixel phones, Battery usage summaries can help explain what is consuming power, making the feature useful when checking battery drain before an outage.

For backup power, consider keeping a fully charged 25,000 mAh portable power bank available.

Milliamp-hours (mAh) measure battery capacity. A 25,000 mAh power bank can typically provide around four to five smartphone charges, depending on the phone’s battery size and charging efficiency.

5. Offline Information: Keep Important Documents Accessible

Cloud storage, email, and online accounts may become inaccessible when cellular and internet connections are unavailable.

Saving important information directly to a smartphone can help ensure it remains available during an outage.

Useful information to keep offline includes:

• Emergency contacts and phone numbers.
• Local shelter locations.
• Evacuation routes and instructions.
• Essential medical information.
• Important documents.

On iPhone: Save a local copy in Files > Browse > On My iPhone, where available.

On Android: Download a local copy and locate it in the phone’s file manager, usually under Downloads.

Users should confirm that files are stored on the device rather than only in cloud storage and protect sensitive information using available security features.

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Preparing Before an Outage

Start by checking satellite eligibility on the phone you actually use, including its software, service activation, and supported locations. Run the available demonstration while you still have reliable connectivity, and understand which option contacts emergency services and which supports personal messages.

Next, download maps covering your likely destinations and connecting roads. Save essential contacts, instructions, and documents locally, then briefly disconnect from cellular service and Wi-Fi to confirm they open. Reconnect after the test so the phone can receive calls and updates.

For remote teams, agree on a contact method and check-in schedule before an outage. Make sure employees have an accessible contact list and know what to do if their usual work messaging app is unavailable. Satellite SOS should be reserved for emergencies.

Finally, charge the phone and backup battery, pack the correct cable, and locate the battery-saving setting. These preparations can preserve access to useful information and limited communications, but they cannot guarantee service during an outage.

Read more: Make essential details easier to find when you cannot unlock your phone by setting up emergency contacts and medical information on iPhone or Android.