Check cellular connectivity
Cellular connectivity issues can prevent users from accessing data services when Wi-Fi is unavailable. Understanding how to identify these issues and guide users through solutions ensures continued access to organizational resources and maintains productivity. Key indicators include status messages like “No Service,” “Searching,” “SOS only,” or “SOS” displayed on the device.
Note: A device management service can configure these settings. For more information about your organization’s requirements and device policies, check with your device management administrator.
If iPhone or iPad can’t connect to cellular data
What to look for:
“No Service,” “Searching,” “SOS only,” or “SOS” message in status bar.
Device unable to access cellular network.
Apps not loading content when Wi-Fi unavailable.
What’s happening:
Wireless carriers have coverage maps that vary depending on the region, and cellular coverage can change unexpectedly. The device can’t connect to a cellular network.
Steps to take:
Confirm cellular coverage: Verify that the device is in an area with cellular coverage before attempting other solutions.
Turn cellular data off and on: Have the user go to Settings > Cellular (or Settings > Cellular Data for iPad). Tap to turn Cellular Data off and on, then verify that service bars have replaced the status message.
Use Airplane Mode alternative: The user can turn Airplane Mode on and off. Airplane Mode disables cellular until you turn it off.
Enable data roaming for international travel: If no service is available while users are traveling internationally, try turning on data roaming in Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Roaming. Verify that your organization’s wireless plan supports international data roaming.
Carrier settings updates
Carrier settings updates let your organization’s carrier provider update carrier network and related settings to improve cellular network connectivity and performance. Carrier settings updates can also add support for new features like 5G or Wi-Fi Calling.
When a carrier settings update is available, the user is prompted to install it. Installation takes less than one minute, and they can keep using their device normally. If your organization’s carrier releases a mandatory update, they’ll see an OK button instead of an Update button to let them know that the update was downloaded and installed.
Note: If the user sets up a new eSIM or inserts a new SIM card into their iPhone or iPad, they might need to download the carrier settings for your organization’s carrier.
If the user dismisses an installation notification, they can manually update carrier settings by following these steps:
Make sure that the device is connected to a Wi-Fi or cellular network.
Go to Settings > General > About.
If an update is available, a dialog appears with installation instructions.
To find the carrier settings version on the device, scroll to Carrier and the version number appears to the right on the same line.