iOS · iPhone & iPad

How To Turn Off SOS Only on iPhone iOS 16

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Answer

A prevalent solution to addressing this issue involves re-establishing a connection with your cellular data provider. To do this, simply launch the iOS Settings app, and switch the Airplane Mode option ON and then OFF. This action frequently reconnects your device, deactivating the SOS-only mode, provided that you are in an area with cellular data coverage.

Enable/Disable Airplane Mode

A prevalent solution to addressing this issue involves re-establishing a connection with your cellular data provider. To do this, simply launch the iOS Settings app, and switch the Airplane Mode option ON and then OFF. This action frequently reconnects your device, deactivating the SOS-only mode, provided that you are in an area with cellular data coverage.

disable and enable airplane mode iphone
disable and enable airplane mode iphone

Utilize Main SIM Card Number

Should the problem continue, navigate to your Mobile Data settings and confirm that the Mobile Data option is configured to use your primary SIM card.

use the primary mobile data option
use the primary mobile data option

Refresh Mobile Carrier Settings

Return to your settings, deactivate your VPN connection, and choose 'About' within the General section. If available, apply any carrier settings updates to enhance your mobile experience.

general iphone settings
general iphone settings

Upgrade and Reboot iPhone

Also, ensure your iPhone's iOS is up to date by visiting the Software Update settings. If an update is accessible, go ahead and download it, then restart your iPhone after the process is finished. Keep in mind that a WiFi connection might be required to obtain the latest iOS update. Upon rebooting your device, the SOS-only issue should be resolved.

download and install ios update
download and install ios update

Video walkthrough

If it does not work

  • What does SOS-only mode mean on an iPhone?. SOS-only mode on an iPhone indicates that your device is unable to establish a stable connection with your cellular network, allowing you to make emergency calls only.
  • How can I quickly fix the SOS-only issue on my iPhone?. Toggling Airplane Mode on and off often resolves the SOS-only issue by reconnecting your device to the cellular network.
  • How can I ensure my primary SIM card is being used for mobile data?. To set your primary SIM card for mobile data, access your Mobile Data settings on your iPhone and make sure the Mobile Data option is selected for your primary SIM card.
  • Can updating my mobile carrier settings help with the SOS-only issue?. Yes, updating your mobile carrier settings can potentially fix the problem. To do this, disable your VPN connection, go to the General section in your iPhone settings, select About, and update your carrier settings if an update is available.
  • Will updating my iPhone's iOS version help resolve the SOS-only issue?. Updating your iPhone's iOS can potentially fix the SOS-only problem. Check for iOS updates in your Software Update settings and download any available updates. Restart your iPhone after the update to ensure the issue is resolved.