So, you grab your iPhone and notice it’s stuck in SOS Only mode. That’s annoying, right? You can’t make calls, no texting, and no internet unless it’s through Wi-Fi. But don’t worry, this issue happens, and luckily, there are some quick fixes you can try before heading to the Apple Store. Let’s jump right into it!
1. Check for Signal or Network Issues
The most common reason for your iPhone being stuck in SOS mode is poor signal or network issues. You might be in an area where your carrier’s coverage is weak. Here’s what you can do:
- Move to a different location: Sometimes just going outside or to a more open area can help your phone reconnect to the network.
- Turn Airplane Mode On and Off: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (or up from the bottom if you’re using an older iPhone) and toggle Airplane Mode. Wait a few seconds, then turn it off and see if your phone reconnects to the network.
2. Restart Your iPhone
Yep, the good old reboot trick works more often than you’d think. Restarting your iPhone can refresh its connection to the network, potentially fixing the SOS issue:
- For iPhone 8 or newer: Press and hold the volume up/down and the side button until you see the “slide to power off” option.
- For iPhone 7 and older: Just press and hold the side or top button until you see the “slide to power off” option. Once your phone is off, turn it back on by holding the same button.
3. Update Carrier Settings or iOS
Sometimes, your phone might need a software update to fix network or SIM card issues. Here’s how to check:
- Carrier Settings: Go to Settings > General > About. If there’s a carrier update available, you’ll get a prompt to install it.
- iOS Update: While you’re in the Settings app, check for an iOS update by going to Settings > General > Software Update. If there’s a new version available, download and install it.
Final Thoughts:
Getting stuck in SOS Only mode can be frustrating, but don’t panic! Often, it’s just a simple signal hiccup, and these fixes should get you back to full network access. If none of these work, it might be time to give your carrier a call or visit an Apple Store to make sure it’s not a bigger issue.