SOS Only On iPhone How To Fix: Easy Fixes to Restore Your Network Connection

SOS Only On iPhone How To Fix

In this guide, we’ll show you how to fix your iPhone when it’s stuck in SOS mode without needing to download any third-party software. SOS mode, or SOS-only mode, appears when your iPhone isn’t connected to a wireless network, but it can still make emergency calls. This issue often occurs when your iPhone is out of your carrier’s network range. However, if your iPhone remains in SOS mode despite being within coverage, follow these steps to resolve the problem.

Why Your iPhone Says SOS

When your iPhone displays “SOS” or “SOS only,” it means the device isn’t connected to a wireless network, though emergency calls can still be made. Typically, this happens when your iPhone is out of your carrier’s network range. To fix this, you’ll need to find an area with better coverage. However, if your iPhone is still stuck in SOS mode even with available coverage, here’s how to fix it.

Step 1: Turn Airplane Mode On & Off

First, try toggling Airplane Mode on and off. This simple step can help your iPhone reconnect to your carrier’s network. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Turn on the switch next to Airplane Mode.
3. Wait a few seconds, then turn it off.

Alternatively, you can access Airplane Mode via the Control Center:

• Swipe down from the upper right-hand corner of the screen (for iPhones with Face ID) or swipe up from the bottom (for iPhones with a Home button).
• Tap the Airplane Mode icon to turn it on, then tap it again to turn it off.

Step 2: Check Data Roaming Settings

Data roaming settings are crucial, especially when traveling internationally. Here’s how to check them:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Cellular, then Cellular Data Options.
3. Turn Data Roaming on or off as needed.

However, if you’re traveling internationally, be cautious to avoid hefty bills.

Step 3: Update Carrier Settings

Carrier settings updates improve your iPhone’s connection to your carrier’s network. To check for an update:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General, then About.
3. Wait for about 10-15 seconds. If an update is available, a pop-up will appear. If not, nothing will happen.

Step 4: Restart Your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone can fix minor software problems. Here’s how:

• For iPhones with Face ID: Press and hold the side button and either volume button until Slide to Power Off appears. Swipe the power icon from left to right to shut down your iPhone. After 15-30 seconds, press and hold the power button to reboot your iPhone.
• For iPhones without Face ID: Press and hold the power button until Slide to Power Off appears. Swipe the icon, wait 15-30 seconds, and then press and hold the power button to restart.

Step 5: Eject and Reseat the SIM Card

If your iPhone still shows SOS mode, eject and reinsert the SIM card:

1. Use a SIM card ejector tool or a straightened paper clip to eject the SIM tray.
2. Inspect the SIM card for damage.
3. Reinsert the SIM card into the tray and push the tray back into your iPhone.

Step 6: For iPhones with eSIM

If you have an iPhone 14 or newer without a physical SIM tray, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Cellular, then turn off the line switch next to your carrier’s name.
3. Wait five seconds, then turn the switch back on.

Step 7: Update Your iPhone

Sometimes, iOS updates include fixes that improve your iPhone’s network connection. Here’s how to check for updates:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General, then Software Update.
3. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Step 8: Check Configuration Profiles

Configuration profiles can affect your iPhone’s network settings, especially if you’ve traveled internationally. Here’s how to remove them:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General, then VPN & Device Management.
3. Look for any configuration profiles and tap on them.
4. Tap Remove Profile to delete it.

Step 9: Reset Network Settings

If the above steps don’t work, resetting network settings can help:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General, then Transfer or Reset iPhone.
3. Tap Reset, then Reset Network Settings.

This will reset all your Wi-Fi, APN, VPN, and cellular settings to factory defaults. Ensure you know your home Wi-Fi password, as this reset erases all saved Wi-Fi passwords.

Step 10: Contact Apple or Your Carrier

If your iPhone is still stuck in SOS mode, it’s time to reach out to Apple or your wireless carrier. We recommend contacting your carrier first to check for any account issues that might prevent your phone from connecting to the network. If the carrier can’t resolve the issue, visit the Apple Store for further assistance. A hardware problem could be causing the issue, especially if your phone has been damaged.