Event date/time: January 14, 2026 at 18:08 UTC (that’s 1:08 PM US Eastern)

The upcoming Iridium Time Re-Epoch may cause the time/date display to be incorrect on certain Iridium devices—but device functionality and service are not impacted. The fix is straightforward: update firmware (recommended) or, for some handsets, enter a keypad sequence and restart.

Docking station users: Before upgrading your handset, check your docking station manufacturer’s website for any device-specific requirements or compatibility notes.

Quick answer: Who needs to do something?

What is the “Iridium Time Re-Epoch” (and why does it affect the clock)?

Iridium’s network time is based on a system time count that is periodically reset as part of normal satellite network operations—this reset is called a Re-Epoch. Some devices and applications that reference this system time may display the wrong date/time after the change unless firmware (or time-handling logic) is updated.

What you’ll notice after the event

After the Re-Epoch, some devices may show an incorrect time/date, even though calling, texting, SOS, and general connectivity continue to work.

Before you update (recommended checklist)

• Charge your device fully (and don’t start an update on a low battery).
• If you use a dock, check the dock manufacturer’s guidance first.
• Plan to power-cycle the device after updating.
• Perform updates when you can keep the device stable (desk/table, reliable computer, good internet).

Fix for Iridium 9555 / Iridium Extreme / Iridium Extreme PTT

Option A (recommended): Install the January 2026 handset firmware

Iridium’s updated handset firmware is expected to be available the first week of January 2026:

• Iridium 9555: HT25003
• Iridium Extreme: HL25003
• Iridium Extreme PTT: HP25003 

Note: These updates are not mandatory, but highly recommended. 

High-level steps

1. Download the correct upgrade tool/firmware package for your model from your supplier/client portal.
2. Connect the handset to your computer per the upgrade tool instructions.
3. Run the update and wait for completion.
4. Restart the handset, then allow it to register on the Iridium network.

Option B: Keypad sequence (quick clock fix)

If you prefer not to update right away (or need a quick field fix), you can reset the time display using the keypad sequence below.

Keypad fix steps

1. Power on the handset
2. From the dial pad, enter:*#99#2025021418141710#
3. Press the green call key
4. Power the handset off, then back on
5. Move to a location with a clear view of the sky and wait for the handset to register; confirm the time/date display is corrected

Fix for Iridium GO! (original GO!, not GO! exec)

Important: Updating the app alone will NOT fix it

To resolve the time issue on Iridium GO!, you must update the device firmware (not just the mobile app). 

Update Iridium GO! device firmware to v2.3.1

Firmware v2.3.1 is the current recommended GO! firmware and does not apply to GO! exec. The update is done using a computer and the GO!’s local web interface. 

What you’ll need

• A PC or Mac
• Internet to download the firmware file
• Ability to connect to the GO! Wi-Fi network(Updating cannot be done from a phone/tablet.) 

High-level steps (GO! firmware)

1. Download the Iridium GO! firmware 2.3.1 file.
2. Connect your computer to the Iridium GO! Wi-Fi network.
3. In a browser, go to: 192.168.0.1
4. Navigate to the GO! firmware upload area and upload the firmware file.
5. When complete, power the GO! off/on. 

Avoid downgrades: Firmware should not be downgraded. 

Iridium GO! exec

Not impacted. No action required.

Post-update: verify your time zone

If the clock still looks “off” by a few hours after you fix the epoch issue, it’s often a time zone setting (not a network problem). Confirm your device’s time zone setting matches your location.

Need help? We can walk you through it

If you’d like help confirming your model, firmware path, or best update approach (especially if you use a dock/vehicle kit), contact Apollo Satellite @ +1 844-248-0123 and we’ll point you to the correct update steps for your setup.

FAQs

Will my Iridium service stop working after the Re-Epoch?

No—this event primarily affects time/date display on some devices. 

When is the Iridium Time Re-Epoch happening?

January 14, 2026 at 18:08 UTC (Jan 15, 03:08 JST). 

Which firmware versions should I look for on 9555/Extreme/PTT?

HT25003 / HL25003 / HP25003, expected first week of January 2026. 

What’s the keypad sequence to fix the clock on 9555/Extreme/PTT?

*#99#2025021418141710#, then press green call and restart. 

Does Iridium GO! exec need the update?

No—GO! exec is not impacted.