Having your iPhone 15 stuck on SOS can be frustrating, but don’t worry! First, check if your phone is on Airplane Mode or if there’s a carrier issue. Restart your device and make sure cellular settings are correct. If it persists, reset network settings. This guide will walk you through each step in detail, helping you get back to full service quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix SOS on iPhone 15
This guide will take you through troubleshooting steps to resolve the SOS-only issue on your iPhone 15 and restore normal cellular service.
Step 1: Turn Off Airplane Mode
Check if Airplane Mode is on. If so, turn it off.
Airplane Mode can cut off all cellular connections. Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to access Control Center. If the airplane icon is highlighted, tap it to turn off Airplane Mode.
Step 2: Restart Your iPhone
Perform a restart to refresh your phone’s system.
Press and hold the side button and either volume button until “slide to power off” appears. Slide to power off, then after the phone turns off, hold the side button again until you see the Apple logo.
Step 3: Check Carrier Settings
Ensure your phone isn’t experiencing carrier-related issues by updating carrier settings.
Go to Settings > General > About. If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt to update your carrier settings. This ensures your phone has the latest connection configurations.
Step 4: Reset Network Settings
If the problem persists, reset network settings.
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, so you’ll have to re-enter them afterward.
Step 5: Contact Your Carrier
If none of the above works, reach out to your mobile carrier.
Sometimes, issues can be on the carrier’s end. They can verify your account status and check for outages in your area. They may also offer additional troubleshooting steps specific to their network.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your iPhone 15 should reconnect to the cellular network, and the SOS indicator will disappear. You’ll regain full access to all mobile services.
Tips to Fix SOS on iPhone 15
- Ensure your SIM card is properly inserted, as a loose connection can cause issues.
- Keep your iOS updated to avoid compatibility problems with carrier settings.
- Regularly cleaning the SIM slot can prevent hardware-related issues.
- Consider using Wi-Fi Calling if you’re in an area with weak cellular signals.
- Always back up your data before performing network resets to avoid data loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my iPhone 15 only showing SOS?
Your phone may be in SOS mode due to network or carrier issues, Airplane Mode being on, or hardware problems like a misaligned SIM card.
Will resetting network settings delete my data?
Resetting network settings won’t delete personal data, but it will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings.
How do I know if there’s a carrier outage?
Check your carrier’s website or contact customer service to see if there’s an ongoing outage affecting service.
Can a faulty SIM card cause SOS mode?
Yes, a damaged or improperly placed SIM card can cause connectivity issues, leading to SOS mode.
Is SOS mode common on new iPhones?
It’s not typical but can happen if there’s a connectivity problem, which can usually be resolved with troubleshooting.
Summary of Steps
- Turn off Airplane Mode.
- Restart your iPhone.
- Check carrier settings.
- Reset network settings.
- Contact your carrier.
Conclusion
Getting stuck in SOS mode on your iPhone 15 can feel like being stranded on a deserted island. However, with the right steps, you’re not alone in fixing it. This guide has shown you how to troubleshoot by adjusting settings, ensuring your device is up-to-date, and even contacting your carrier for help.
Remember, keeping your phone’s software updated and regularly checking your SIM card can prevent many issues. If you find yourself in SOS mode again, you’ll know exactly what to do.
Stay informed and keep your tech running smoothly. If you ever have more questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to tech support or explore more guides on phone troubleshooting. After all, a little knowledge goes a long way in keeping your digital life connected.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.