Updated
Quick fix
Turn Airplane Mode on and off, restart the phone, and check whether your carrier has an outage in your area. If the problem stays, check the SIM or eSIM and install any carrier settings update.
“SOS” or “SOS only” means the phone can’t use your carrier but can still place emergency calls through another network.
Step by step
Toggle Airplane Mode
Turn it on for 15 seconds, then off. This forces the phone to search for the network again.
Restart the phone
A restart fixes many temporary connection problems.
Check for an outage
Use Wi-Fi to check your carrier’s outage page or app, or ask someone on the same carrier nearby.
Check the SIM or eSIM
For a physical SIM, power off, remove the SIM tray, check the card isn’t damaged, and reinsert it. For an eSIM, check that the line is turned on in your cellular or mobile network settings.
Update carrier settings and software
On iPhone, a carrier settings update (if available) appears in Settings > General > About. Install any system update on iPhone or Android.
Reset network settings
As a last resort, reset network settings (see Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for where to find it).
Contact your carrier
If it still won’t connect, your account, SIM or line may need attention from the carrier.
Common questions
Why do I have service at home but not in my office building?
Large buildings, metal and coated glass can block cell signals. Wi-Fi Calling (if your carrier supports it) or a carrier-approved signal booster can help.