Just updated your iPhone and now you’re missing texts, calls, and app alerts? You’re not alone — this is a common issue after iOS updates. Here are 12 fixes that actually work to bring your notifications back.
1. Check Notification Settings for Each App
The update may have reset your preferences.
- Go to Settings > Notifications.
- Tap on any important app (like Messages, Mail, etc.).
- Make sure Allow Notifications is turned on.
- Also check Lock Screen, Notification Center, and Banners are enabled under “Alerts”.
2. Turn Off Focus Modes
Focus modes (like Do Not Disturb) often block notifications without you realizing.
- Go to Settings > Focus.
- Check if any mode like Do Not Disturb, Work, or Sleep is active.
- Tap into each one and turn it off.
3. Disable Shared Focus Across Devices
If you’re using iCloud and Focus is shared, another device might be muting your alerts.
- Go to Settings > Focus.
- Scroll down and turn off Share Across Devices.
4. Update All Apps
Outdated apps might not play nice with the latest iOS version.
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile in the top-right.
- Tap Update All if updates are available.
5. Restart Your iPhone
A reboot clears temporary glitches and resets background processes.
- Press and hold the Power button until you see Slide to Power Off.
- Turn it off, wait 30 seconds, then power back on.
6. Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off
This refreshes your network connection, which can help trigger delayed or missing alerts.
- Open Control Center.
- Tap the Airplane Mode icon to enable it.
- Wait 30 seconds, then tap it again to turn it off.
7. Reset Network Settings
If notifications aren’t coming in due to cellular or Wi-Fi problems, reset your network settings.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
- Tap Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks, so be ready to reconnect afterward.
8. Remove and Reinsert Your SIM Card
Sometimes reseating your SIM can fix notification issues tied to cellular service.
- Use a SIM ejector or paperclip to remove the SIM tray.
- Take out the SIM, clean it gently, and reinsert it firmly.
9. Check for a Carrier Settings Update
Carrier updates improve connectivity and compatibility with iOS.
- Go to Settings > General > About.
- Wait a few seconds — if an update is available, you’ll see a pop-up.
10. Update iOS Again
If Apple has pushed a bug fix, installing the latest patch might solve your issue.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Install any available updates.
11. Factory Reset as a Last Resort
Only do this if nothing else works. It’ll wipe your device and reinstall iOS clean.
- Back up your iPhone to iCloud or your computer.
- Then go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
After the reset, restore your backup and check notifications again.
12. Contact Apple Support
Still not getting alerts? There could be a deeper bug or hardware issue.
- Visit support.apple.com
- Or make a Genius Bar appointment at an Apple Store.