I. Introduction
If you own an iPhone, you may have encountered the puzzling “SOS only” message that pops up on your screen at times. This indicates that your iPhone is unable to establish a proper connection with your network carrier. While frustrating, this issue can be resolved through various fixes. In this article, we’ll provide you with effective solutions to get rid of the SOS only issue on your iPhone.
II. Reset Network Settings
One easy fix for the “SOS only” issue is resetting your iPhone’s network settings. This can be done by going to Settings, then General, then Reset, and selecting “Reset Network Settings.” This process will erase your current Wi-Fi and cellular settings, as well as stored passwords and networks. You’ll need to re-enter your Wi-Fi passwords and reconnect to your cellular network.
However, be aware that resetting network settings will also erase any customized special settings that have been configured for your phone, such as VPN configurations or custom DNS settings. So, make sure you have noted these settings and have your Wi-Fi password before performing this reset.
III. Check for Coverage
Another solution to the “SOS only” issue on your iPhone is to check your coverage. Coverage might differ from location to location, your distance to nearby towers, and whether you’re inside a building. So, it’s important to take note of it. Ensure you’re within your network carrier’s coverage area, and check for any network outages happening in your location. Additionally, find locations with better reception if you are struggling with poor coverage in your current location. You can also invest in a signal booster or Wi-Fi calling to strengthen your connection. Lastly, consider downloading apps like OpenSignal or Network Signal Info to monitor signal strength.
IV. Update Carrier Settings
Updating carrier settings on your iPhone could be the solution to the “SOS only” problem you’re experiencing. Carrier settings are files that contain important information about your network carrier and how your iPhone interacts with their network. Updating this can help your iPhone connect properly to your network carrier. To do this, go to Settings, then General, and click on About, and if there’s an update available, you’ll be prompted to install it.
However, be aware that in some instances, updating carrier settings has caused issues like incompatibility with some devices, or problems with data connection or calls. So, check online forums or with your network carrier before performing an update.
V. Toggle Airplane Mode
If your iPhone displays “SOS only,” try toggling airplane mode on and off first. This is one of the simplest solutions to the problem and can be found in Control Center or under Settings. Turning on airplane mode disconnects your phone from the cellular network, and toggling airplane mode back off will reconnect it to the network. This simple fix can resolve the issue without any additional troubleshooting steps.
VI. Check for iPhone Updates
Updating iPhone software can help improve network connectivity, and this may solve the “SOS only” issue you’re facing. An outdated iOS may cause network connectivity issues. To check for software updates, go to Settings, then General, then Software Update. If an update is available, download and install it and ensure your iPhone’s software stays up to date.
However, be aware that there is a tendency for updates to introduce new issues that may affect phone functionality.
VII. Contact Your Carrier
If all else fails, contacting your network carrier’s customer service can be helpful. They could be experiencing some issues that may be affecting your service. Before calling them, test the previous fixes you’ve attempted on your iPhone. Be prepared with your phone model, IMEI or SIM number, as well as your account details. They can help troubleshoot the issue on your behalf and may be able to provide additional resources or tools to fix the problem.
VIII. Conclusion
The “SOS only” issue on your iPhone can be quite frustrating, but the good news is that you can fix it with these effective solutions we’ve provided. Resetting network settings, checking for coverage, updating carrier settings, toggling airplane mode on and off, downloading iOS updates, and reaching out to your network carrier are all potential solutions to fix the problem. So, try out these solutions and avoid further aggravation when you’re faced with the “SOS only” problem on your iPhone.
If you’re facing other network connectivity issues, these tips and tricks could also come in handy. Ensure that your iPhone’s software is updated, check your Wi-Fi and Cellular settings, and ensure you’re connected to the right network carrier. These solutions should help resolve network-related issues you may face on your iPhone.