SOS on iPhone? Understand Why & How to Fix It Fast [Guide]

Seeing SOS on iPhone can be confusing—and sometimes alarming—especially if you’re unsure what triggered it or how to make it go away. Whether you’re using an iPhone 14, iPhone 13, or even an older model like the iPhone XR, the appearance of “SOS” or “SOS Only” in your status bar signals a specific issue with your device’s connectivity. It often catches users off guard, making it feel like something is seriously wrong. In this guide, we’ll explain what SOS mode actually means, why it shows up, and—most importantly – how to fix it so your iPhone works normally again.

What is SOS mode

When you see “SOS” or “SOS Only” in the status bar of your iPhone, it means your device isn’t connected to its regular cellular network. Instead, it can only make emergency calls. This mode appears when your iPhone loses access to your carrier’s signal but can still connect to other available networks that support emergency services. While it doesn’t mean your phone is completely offline, it does limit functionality—preventing regular calls, texts, or data use. SOS mode is often temporary but may require action to restore full service.

Why does my phone say SOS

SOS mode can appear on your iPhone without warning, and in some cases, your phone may get stuck in it. This often happens due to network connectivity issues—such as being in a dead zone, during a carrier outage, or when your phone can’t connect to its home network. A notable example occurred during a major Verizon outage in April 2024, where over 100,000 users reported being affected, with both Android and iPhone devices showing SOS mode and losing regular service. Other causes include software glitches or accidental activation by pressing the emergency button combination without realizing it.

How to get your iPhone out of SOS mode

Getting stuck in SOS mode on your iPhone can be frustrating, especially when you’re unsure why it’s happening or how to fix it. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can try to restore full connectivity. Whether it’s a simple network issue or something more technical, the following solutions can help get your iPhone back to normal. In the next section, we’ll walk through practical steps you can take to resolve the SOS mode problem.

Check and adjust network-related settings

Start by checking your iPhone’s network connection. Make sure you’re in an area with strong cellular coverage or connected to a working Wi-Fi network. If your signal is weak or lost, try toggling Airplane Mode on and off to refresh the connection. You can also go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings to clear any outdated or corrupted network configurations. This often resolves persistent SOS mode issues.

Restart your iPhone

Restarting your device is another quick fix that often works. For iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, or later, press and hold the Side button and Volume Up or Down until the power slider appears, then slide to power off. Wait a few seconds and turn the phone back on. If you’re using an older model like the iPhone 7, check this guide for specific instructions: CNET iPhone restart guide.

Update your software

Outdated software can sometimes cause system glitches, including SOS mode issues. To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available iOS or iPadOS updates. Keeping your system up to date ensures your phone has the latest bug fixes and connectivity improvements.

Get help

If none of the above methods solve the problem, it’s time to reach out for help. Contact your cellular provider to check for service outages or SIM-related issues. If the issue persists, consider contacting Apple Support for further diagnostics and assistance with your device.

Can you still use your iPhone in SOS mode

When your iPhone is in SOS mode, regular cellular functions like making calls, sending texts, or using mobile data are restricted. You won’t be able to connect to your carrier’s network for everyday communication. However, you can still make emergency calls, which are routed through any available network—even if it’s not your carrier’s. On newer iPhone models, emergency SOS via satellite may also be available in areas without cellular coverage. Additionally, if you’re connected to Wi-Fi, you can still use internet-based services like iMessage, FaceTime, and apps that rely on a data connection.

Summary

SOS mode on iPhone indicates that the device has lost connection to its primary cellular network but can still make emergency calls. Common causes include network outages, poor signal, SIM card issues, software glitches, or accidental activation. To fix SOS mode, users can try adjusting network settings, restarting the phone, updating iOS, or contacting their carrier or Apple Support. Managing cellular connectivity effectively is key to avoiding such issues. Exploring alternative solutions like eSIM technology and compatible data plans can offer greater flexibility and reliability, especially when traveling or in areas with limited network coverage.

FAQs

What triggers iPhone SOS?

• Press and quickly release the volume up button.
• Press and quickly release the volume down button.
• Press and hold the side button.
• When the Apple logo appears, release the side button.

Why is my iPhone stuck in SOS mode on Verizon?

iPhone users may see “SOS” or “SOS only” displayed in the status bar on their phone screen because their device isn’t connected to their cellular network, according to Apple Support. Users can still make emergency calls.

Why does my iPhone keep going into SOS mode?

If your iPhone keeps going into SOS mode, it could be due to accidental activation—pressing the side and volume buttons together—or network issues like poor signal or carrier outages. Software glitches or outdated system settings can also cause the phone to enter SOS mode repeatedly. Checking your network connection, updating iOS, and adjusting Emergency SOS settings may help prevent it.

“SOS” or “SOS Only” on your iPhone means a cellular connection issue. This guide explains what it is, why it appears, and how to fix it.