Why is My iPhone Stuck in SOS Mode? Causes and Solutions

Around 2 p.m. PT Tuesday, many iPhone users reported being locked into emergency SOS mode, a feature that allows users to contact emergency services and share their location even when they don't have cellular service. This situation can be quite alarming, especially when you’re not sure why it’s happening or how to fix it. Let’s dive into the possible reasons and solutions for an iPhone being stuck in SOS mode.

What is iPhone Emergency SOS Mode?

The Emergency SOS mode on an iPhone is a safety feature that allows users to contact emergency services and share their location, even without cellular service. When triggered, it sends an alert to emergency contacts and provides them with your location. However, if your iPhone gets stuck in this mode, it can become frustrating as it restricts normal phone functionality.

Common Reasons for iPhone Stuck in SOS Mode

• Poor or No Network Signal

One of the most common reasons your iPhone might be stuck in SOS mode is due to a weak or absent network signal. When the device cannot find a stable connection, it might lock into SOS mode to prioritize emergency services.

• Software Issues

Software glitches or bugs, especially after a recent update, can cause your iPhone to malfunction and get stuck in SOS mode.

• SIM Card Problems

A misaligned or damaged SIM card can interfere with your phone's ability to connect to your carrier's network, leading it to default to SOS mode.

• Carrier Settings Update Needed

Outdated carrier settings can cause connectivity problems, which may result in the device getting stuck in emergency mode.

• iPhone in "Emergency Mode"

Sometimes, the iPhone mistakenly interprets a series of button presses as a command to enter SOS mode. This can happen if the buttons are pressed accidentally or if there's a hardware malfunction.

• Hardware Issues

Damage to internal components, such as the antenna, could prevent your iPhone from connecting to a cellular network, causing it to stay in SOS mode.

Ways to Fix iPhone Stuck in SOS Mode

1. Reconnect to Cellular Network

If your cellular network is available, you might be able to reconnect by following these steps:

• Go to Settings.
• Turn on Airplane Mode for at least 15 seconds.
• Turn off Airplane Mode.

2. Turn On Data Roaming

If you're traveling internationally, ensure your device is set up for data roaming:

• Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
• Turn on Cellular Data or Mobile Data, then tap Cellular Data Options.
• Turn on Data Roaming.

3. Enable LTE

If your device uses a 3G network, switch to LTE:

• Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
• Turn on Cellular Data or Mobile Data, then tap Cellular Data Options.
• Tap Voice & Data, then turn on LTE.

4. Restart Your iPhone

A simple restart can often resolve minor glitches. Follow the steps based on your iPhone model:

• For iPhone X, 11, or later: Press and hold either volume button and the side button until the power-off slider appears.
• For iPhone 6 to 8, or SE (2nd or 3rd generation): Press and hold the side button until the power-off slider appears.
• For iPhone SE (1st generation), 5, or earlier: Press and hold the top button until the power-off slider appears.

5. Check for iOS Updates

Make sure your iOS is up-to-date:

Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates.

6. Use Joyoshare UltFix

Joyoshare UltFix is a tool that can fix over 150 iOS system issues without data loss. Follow these steps:

• Select iOS System Repair on the main interface and click Start.
• Choose the Standard Repair option.
• Download a compatible firmware package and finish verification.
• Use the Repair option to unzip the firmware package and fix the iOS system. Wait until the progress bar completes to repair your iPhone.

7. Reinsert the SIM Card

Remove and reinsert your SIM card to ensure it’s correctly placed. This can help re-establish a connection to your carrier's network.

8. Update Carrier Settings

Outdated carrier settings can cause problems. To update:

Go to Settings > General > About. If there’s a prompt for a carrier settings update, follow the instructions.

9. Restore iPhone via iTunes or Finder

Before restoring, back up your data using iTunes or iCloud:

• Open iTunes or Finder on your computer.
• If iTunes doesn’t recognize your iPhone, put it into recovery or DFU mode.
• Click Restore—note that this will erase your data.

10. Contact Apple Support or Your Carrier

If the problem persists, reach out to your carrier to check for network issues or a SIM card replacement. Alternatively, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Conclusion

If your iPhone is stuck in SOS mode, it could be due to a range of issues from poor network signal to software or hardware problems. Follow the steps provided above to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact your carrier or Apple Support.