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iPhone 18 Pro Max can’t call or text on AT&T? Apple will replace it for free
Tech > Services & Software > Operating Systems > Mobile OS > iOS
Some iPhone 18 Pro Max phones on AT&T are stuck in SOS mode. Two updates can prevent it, but affected phones need replacing.
If your iPhone 18 Pro Max has lost service on AT&T and is unable to make calls, send texts, or even use mobile data, two new software updates won’t be enough to get it working again. But Apple will replace the phone for free.
A couple of weeks ago, iPhone 18 Pro Max owners on AT&T began reporting they had lost cellular service. AT&T initially directed customers to install iOS 27.0.1 “immediately,” warning the problem could prevent calls to 911.
Also: iOS 27.0.1: Apple fixes annoying iPhone 18 Pro restart issues
Apple has now confirmed to ZDNET that an issue affecting “a small number of iPhone 18 Pro Max users” on AT&T’s network may cause their devices to lose service. “We released iOS 27.0.1 earlier this week and strongly encourage all iPhone 18 Pro Max users to update now, and are also issuing a carrier settings update today,” Apple said. “These updates together are meant to help prevent this issue from occurring.”
Since the updates are intended to prevent the issue, they won’t fix devices already affected. Those will require a replacement, according to Apple.
iPhone 18 Pro Max owners on Reddit have reported randomly losing their connection to AT&T, with phones switching to SOS mode. While Wi-Fi still works, they can’t make calls, send texts, or use data over the network.
Also: 7 iOS 27 features that make old iPhones exciting again
AT&T has subsequently sent a text to customers to warn them about an “important Apple Software update” that’s available for affected phones. “Some phones may be unable to complete calls/text/data, including to 911,” the mobile carrier said. “Update to iOS 27.0.1 immediately — Settings > General > Software Update.”