Seeing an iPhone cellular error can be worrying. However, most cellular issues can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps. In this guide, I’ll outline the top solutions to resolve the iPhone cellular error and get your cellular data working again.
The iPhone cellular error typically appears as “Cellular Update Failed” or “Could Not Activate Cellular Data Network”. It means your iPhone is unable to connect to your carrier’s cellular network. When this happens, you lose the ability to access data services and make calls over the cellular network.
Fortunately, a cellular error is usually caused by a minor software glitch or network setting issue – not a hardware problem. Let’s look at the best ways to troubleshoot and fix the iPhone cellular error.
Fix iPhone Cellular Error
Encountering a cellular error on your iPhone can be frustrating, as it disrupts your ability to make calls, send messages, and access the internet on the go. Whether you’re experiencing a “No Service” message, weak signal, or other cellular connectivity issues, it’s important to address them promptly. In this article, we will provide you with practical solutions to fix the “iPhone cellular error” problem, allowing you to regain reliable cellular connectivity and stay connected wherever you are.
Check Cellular Data & Airplane Mode Settings
Start by ensuring cellular data is actually turned on.
Open Settings > Cellular and check the Cellular Data toggle is ON.
Also turn Airplane Mode on, wait 30 seconds, then turn it off. This resets your network connections.
Update Carrier Settings
Outdated carrier settings can prevent proper cellular connectivity.
Go to Settings > General > About to check for and install pending carrier updates. This optimizes your iPhone’s network compatibility.
Reset Network Settings
Resetting network settings erases saved Wi-Fi networks and other connections and restores them to default.
- Go To Settings
- General
- Transfer and Reset iPhone
- Reset
- Reset Network Settings. Enter passcode if prompted.
Check Account Status
Contact your carrier to verify your account is in good standing. Ask them to check for any blocks on your device or account that could cause cellular issues.
Switch Cellular Bands
Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options. Turn Enable LTE off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. Cycling between 4G/5G and LTE bands can resolve connection problems.
Remove and Reinsert SIM
Eject your SIM tray and remove the SIM card. Inspect for any damage. Clean with a soft cloth if dirty. Insert the SIM card back into the tray and into your iPhone. This can fix SIM reader issues.
Restart Your iPhone
Restarting your iPhone refreshes the operating system, clearing out minor glitches that could be causing cellular errors.
Press and hold the Side button and Volume button together until power off slider appears. Drag the slider to restart your iPhone.
Reset All Settings
For stubborn cellular errors, go to Settings > General > Transfer and Reset iPhone>Reset and tap Reset All Settings. This performs a deeper reset of all settings while retaining your data.
Contact Apple Support
If you still see the iPhone cellular error after trying these troubleshooting steps mentioned above, contact Apple Support for further assistance. They can run diagnostics and suggest next steps.
The good news is that the iPhone cellular error is typically easy to resolve yourself without needing a repair. Following this step-by-step troubleshooting guide should get your iPhone reconnected to the cellular network. Just be methodical in trying each solution until cellular data is working normally again.