No Signal? SOS Only on iPhone? How To Fix It!

Published: 29 September 2023Updated: 20 December 2023

Are you experiencing the frustrating SOS Only issue on your iPhone? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will guide you through SOS Only on iPhone, how to fix it to get out of this problem and get your iPhone back to its normal functioning. When you see the SOS Only message on your status bar, it means that your device is unable to connect to a cellular network and can only make emergency calls. This can be quite inconvenient as it restricts your access to regular phone services and data usage. However, there are several ways to troubleshoot and fix this problem. From enabling roaming and updating carrier settings to re-inserting the SIM card and resetting network settings, we will explore all the possible solutions in detail.

SOS

What Is the Meaning of SOS Only on iPhone?

SOS Only on an iPhone typically means that your device is currently connected to a mobile network, but it can only make emergency calls. This status usually occurs when your iPhone is unable to establish a regular cellular connection, and it restricts your phone’s functionality to ensure that you can still make emergency calls in critical situations. There could be several reasons for this, such as poor network coverage, issues with your SIM card, or problems with your phone’s settings. To resolve this, you may need to troubleshoot your network connection, check your SIM card, or adjust your phone’s settings to regain regular mobile service.

How To Resolve SOS Only Problem

Here are some of the ways to troubleshoot SOS Only on iPhone:

Enable Roaming on iPhone

To enhance your network connectivity while traveling abroad, make sure to enable data roaming on your iPhone. If you are experiencing an SOS Only message on your device, it’s likely because your phone is not connected to a cellular service or there is limited network coverage in the area you are in. By enabling data roaming, you allow your iPhone to connect to available networks in other countries, ensuring that you have access to voice and data services.

To enable data roaming, go to the settings on your iPhone, select ‘Cellular,’ then toggle the ‘Data Roaming’ option on. If you’re unsure about whether or not you should enable this feature, contact your carrier for further assistance and guidance.

Update Carrier Settings

Carrier settings update on your iPhone will greatly improve your network connectivity and enhance your overall travel experience. To fix the SOS Only issue and ensure a stable network connection, follow these steps:

  • Go to “Settings” on your iPhone.
  • Scroll down and tap on “General.”
  • Next, select “About” from the list

If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt to update your carrier’s network settings. Tap on it and wait for the update to install. By updating your carrier settings, you allow your iPhone to establish a better connection with the network provider, which can resolve issues like SOS Only mode.

Turn On/off Airplane Mode

Enabling or disabling Airplane Mode on your iPhone can be a game-changer for enhancing your travel experience and ensuring seamless network connectivity. If you’re facing the frustrating SOS Only error on your iPhone, one quick fix is to turn on Airplane Mode and then turn it off again.

To do this:

  • Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the Control Center, where you’ll find the airplane mode icon.
  • Tap on it to enable the airplane mode
  • Wait for a few seconds, and then tap on it again to disable airplane mode

This simple action can often resolve the SOS Only issue and restore normal network functionality to your iPhone.

Switch to 4G or LTE

person holding phone

Switching to 4G or LTE can greatly improve your network connectivity and provide faster data speeds on your iPhone. If you’re experiencing the issue of SOS Only on your iPhone and want to fix it, one solution is to switch to a 4G or LTE network. By doing so, you can ensure that your phone is connected to a stronger and more reliable signal, which will help eliminate the SOS-only problem.

To switch to 4G or LTE:

  • Go to the settings menu on your iPhone, select ‘Cellular,’ and then choose ‘Voice & Data.’
  • From there, you can switch from 3G to 4G or LTE.

This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in improve cellular connectivity and getting rid of the SOS-only issue on your iPhone.

Turn On/off Airplane Mode

To effortlessly toggle your network connection, simply activate or deactivate Airplane Mode on your iPhone. This can be done by accessing the Control Center and tapping on the airplane icon. By turning on Airplane Mode, you’ll disable all wireless connections, including cellular data, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This can be helpful if you’re in an area with poor reception or experiencing network errors. If you want to turn off Airplane Mode and regain connectivity, just tap the airplane icon again to disable it. Doing so will allow your iPhone to search for available networks and reconnect to them.

Disable or Enable Automatic Network Selection

An option worth exploring is disabling or enabling automatic network selection. Sometimes, your phone may struggle to connect to a reliable cellular network due to certain settings. By manually choosing a network or allowing your device to automatically select one, you can improve your chances of obtaining better cellular network coverage.

To do this:

  • Go to the Settings app on your iPhone and navigate to the Cellular section
  • Look for the option that allows you to disable or enable automatic network selection and make the necessary adjustments based on your preference.

If this doesn’t resolve the issue, there are additional troubleshooting steps you can try.

Re-Insert Sim Card

One possible solution is to try re-inserting your physical SIM card into your iPhone to see if that resolves the issue. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Power off your iPhone by pressing and holding the power button until the slider appears, then slide it to turn off.
  • Locate the SIM card tray on your iPhone. It’s usually on the side or top of the device, depending on the model.
  • Use a SIM eject tool or a small paperclip to gently push into the small hole next to the tray and pop it open.
  • Carefully remove the SIM card from its slot and inspect it for any damage or dirt.
  • If everything looks fine, re-insert the SIM card back into the slot, making sure it fits snugly.
  • Close the tray by sliding it back into place until you hear a click.

By re-inserting your SIM card, you’re ensuring that there’s proper contact between your iPhone and your cellular provider’s network.

How To Reset Network Settings on an iPhone

To further troubleshoot the issue of SOS only on your iPhone, another step you can take is to reset the network settings. This can help resolve any glitches or conflicts that might be causing the problem. By doing this, you’ll essentially restore the default network settings on your device.

To reset network settings on your iPhone:

  • Go to the Settings app and tap on ‘General’
  • From there, scroll down and select ‘Reset’
  • Then, tap ‘Reset Network Settings and enter your passcode if prompted
  • Confirm the action by tapping ‘Reset Network Settings’ again

Afterward, your phone will restart and all saved Wi-Fi networks, VPN configurations, cellular data preferences, and network selection will be erased. You’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks and reconfigure any VPNs or cellular data settings as necessary. It’s important to note that resetting network settings won’t delete any personal data from your iPhone but it may require you to input certain information again for a stable network connection.

Troubleshooting on 3G Network

people using phone while standing

Having a stable 3G network is crucial for staying connected and accessing important information on your device. If you’re experiencing the issue of SOS only on your iPhone, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix it.

First, ensure that your cellular services are enabled by going to Settings > Cellular and making sure the toggle switch is turned on. Additionally, check if there are any carrier updates available by going to Settings > General > About. Updating your carrier settings can improve network performance.

If the issue persists, try resetting your network settings by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will clear any saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings but may resolve connectivity issues with your 3G network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does My iPhone Show SOS Only Instead of Displaying the Network Provider Name?

Your iPhone displaying SOS Only instead of the network provider name typically indicates that your device is unable to establish a regular cellular connection. This status usually occurs in situations of poor network coverage, issues with your SIM card, or problems with your phone’s settings. When your iPhone is in SOS Only mode, it restricts your phone’s functionality to emergency calls only, ensuring you can always reach emergency services even in areas with weak or no network signal. To resolve this, you may need to check your SIM card, troubleshoot network coverage in your area, or adjust your phone’s settings to regain regular mobile service.

Is There a Difference Between SOS Only and Having No Signal at All on My iPhone?

Yes, there is a difference between SOS Only and having no signal at all on your iPhone. When your iPhone displays SOS Only, it means that your device has found a minimal signal but can only make emergency calls, restricting regular network functions. On the other hand, having no signal at all means your iPhone cannot establish any network connection whatsoever, making it impossible to make both regular and emergency calls. In essence, SOS Only implies a limited emergency service capability, whereas no signal indicates a complete lack of connectivity.

Can I Still Make Emergency Calls When My iPhone Shows SOS Only?

Yes, when your iPhone displays “SOS Only,” it means you can still make emergency calls. It ensures you have access to emergency services even in areas with limited or no regular network signal. Simply dial emergency numbers like 911 or your country’s equivalent.

Conclusion

When you find yourself facing the frustrating No Signal or SOS Only issue on your iPhone, rest assured that there are effective solutions at your fingertips. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly resolve the problem and regain full connectivity. Remember that technology hiccups can happen to anyone, but with the right knowledge and troubleshooting skills, you can keep your iPhone running smoothly. Say goodbye to the SOS Only dilemma, and stay connected with confidence. If you have any further questions or encounter any other issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Your iPhone is a valuable tool, and keeping it connected is essential in today’s digital world.

Nial Setterfield

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