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Error messageApple states that No Service or Searching means the device is not connected to a cellular network. SOS or SOS only may allow emergency calls through other networks in supported regions; it does not mean normal service is available.

iPhone shows SOS, No Service or Searching

No Service

iPhone is not connecting to the cellular network. Check reconnection, coverage and line status separately from Wi-Fi.

Try this first

1 quick checks · ~3 min

  1. Try reconnecting to the cellular networkChoose a moment when you can interrupt the connection.

Find your situation

See all the clues. Choose the one that matches what you observe.

One area or line is affected

Check coverage and account state with the carrier before changing settings.

You are traveling

Confirm that the plan and line support service in that region; check roaming with the carrier.

Step-by-step solutions

01

Try reconnecting to the cellular network

  • Estimated time: 3 min
  • Easy
  • Low risk
  • Restart required

Choose a moment when you can interrupt the connection.

  1. Turn on Airplane Mode for at least 15 seconds, then turn it off. Allow the phone to search for a network again.

  2. If the alert remains, restart iPhone normally and check cellular status again. Do not use an emergency call as a test.

Sources:
02

Confirm coverage and line status

  • Estimated time: 5 min
  • Easy
  • Low risk

The carrier can check information the phone does not show.

  1. Ask about coverage or an outage in the area and whether the account and line are active. Mention whether it started while traveling or changing lines.

  2. If roaming is needed, confirm support and charges with the carrier before enabling it. Do not delete an eSIM to force registration.

Sources:
03

Check iOS and carrier settings

  • Estimated time: 15 min
  • Easy
  • Low risk
  • Restart required

Use an available connection and save work before updating.

  1. Check for an iOS update and whether a carrier-settings update is offered in Settings > General > About.

  2. Apply offered updates following the prompts. If Invalid SIM or No SIM appears, continue with that guide; ask the carrier for eSIM activation help.

Sources:
Next step

Still not working?

If the carrier confirms service and account status, give Apple the alert, iOS version and completed checks. Working Wi-Fi does not establish cellular connectivity.

Sources

Documentation behind this guide. Editorial recommendations are identified separately.

Source review: . A documentation review, not a physical hardware test.

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