Quick Access to Help: SOS Only iPhone

SOS Only iPhone Learn about the meaning behind it and why it occurs and how to solve it with the help of experts who provide advice and step-by-step solutions.

If you’ve ever glanced at your iPhone and seen those words “SOS Only” in the top right-hand corner in the area where the signal bars normally appear, you’re not alone. This is a confusing message for many people. Let’s take a look at how “SOS Only” on iPhone is, what it means, the reason why it happens and what you can do solve it without requiring assistance from a tech assistance.

Also Read This Article: 5 Ways to Fix Your iPhone keeps turning on and off

What does “SOS Only” Mean on iPhone?

“SOS Only” on your iPhone indicates that you is able to only make emergency calls such as 911 or other emergency services that are regional. It typically appears when your iPhone isn’t able to connect to the network of your carrier however it can connect to a different network for emergency calls.

This feature is intended for security — meaning you’ll never be without assistance, even if your mobile service isn’t functioning.

Why Does My iPhone Say “SOS Only”?

These are just a few of the most frequently used reasons:

Poor Signal or No Network Coverage

• You may be in a location that has little or no coverage from your service provider.

SIM Card Issue

• Your SIM might be damaged, unaligned or it isn’t activated.

Network Outage

• Service provider might be experiencing intermittent outages in your area.

Roaming Settings

• If you’re taking a trip to a different country, roaming could be disabled.

Account Problems

• Unpaid bills either suspended or unpaid, as well as SIM lock may be the cause to this.

Software Glitch or Bug

• iOS sometimes has bugs that are temporary and could affect the connection to the internet.

How to Fix “SOS Only” on iPhone (Step-by-Step)

Let’s look at simple, but efficient steps to solve this issue.

Turn Airplane Mode ON and OFF

• Open Control Center.
• Tap the Airplane icon.
• Take 5 seconds, repeat the tap.

This will force your iPhone to connect to your mobile carrier.

Restart Your iPhone

• Hold and press the side button, as well as the volume up/down.
• Slide the switch to turn off power.
• It will turn off in about 10 second.

This fixes the temporary glitches.

Check SIM Card

• Make use of the SIM tool to eject the SIM or a pin to detach the SIM.
• Clean it thoroughly and then reinsert.
• If it’s damaged, you should contact your carrier to request the replacement.

Update Carrier Settings

• Go to Settings > General > About.
• If there’s an update for the carrier the pop-up window will be displayed.

Carrier settings will ensure that your iPhone is in sync with the network.

Update iOS

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
• Install the most recent version.

Apple often corrects bugs that impact the performance of networks.

Enable Data Roaming (If Traveling)

• Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options.
• Turn on Data Roaming.

It is essential to use your phone in different nations.

Reset Network Settings

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

The Wi-Fi passwords are erased, but not your personal data.

It resets all network configurations back to default settings from the factory.

Contact Your Carrier

Is your device still not working? Your carrier may:

• Are there problems with coverage in your area.
• You must reactivate your SIM.
• Need to do a refresh of the network at their end.

Try a Different SIM

If you have a different SIM:

• Insert it in your iPhone.
• When the “SOS Only” message disappears then your original SIM is at fault.

Visit Apple Support

If all else fails it is possible that your iPhone’s antenna logic board or SIM reader could be damaged. Schedule an appointment at a Genius Bar appointment. Or, visit a certified service center.

Is My Data Safe During “SOS Only” Mode?

Yes. The “SOS Only” message does not affect your apps, photos, contacts, or data. It only impacts your ability to call, text, or use mobile data with your carrier.

You can still:

• Use Wi-Fi
• Send iMessages
• Access apps that work with internet (if on Wi-Fi)

SOS Only iPhone: Data Table Summary

Issue	Symptoms	Fix
No signal	SOS Only appears	Restart, toggle Airplane mode
SIM card issue	No SIM detected	Reinsert or replace SIM
Carrier outage	Calls & data down	Wait or contact support
iOS glitch	SOS after update	Restart or update software
Traveling	SOS while abroad	Turn on Data Roaming

FAQs About “SOS Only” iPhone

• Are there calls that I can still make on my iPhone if it states SOS Only?

You can only make emergency calls and not receive any texts or calls.

• Does SOS Only the identical to No Service?

But not really. “SOS Only” means you are able to call emergency services, whereas “No Service” means you aren’t able to make calls to anyone.

• Does the use of VPNs cause SOS Only mode? VPN result in SOS Only Mode?

Unlikely. VPNs route internet traffic, but don’t interfere with the SIM signal.

• Does a factory reset work to help fix SOS Only?

As a last resort, only use it. Try resetting your the network settings or resetting iOS.

• How can I solve SOS Only Without Wi-Fi?

The majority of options (like Airplane Mode, SIM reset) don’t require Wi-Fi however software updates do.

• My alarm will function even in SOS Only mode?

Yes, the iPhone’s alarm clock as well as offline apps are still working normally.