iPhone XS Max Cellular Data Not Working After iOS 13 Update? Here’s How to Fix It

If your iPhone XS Max lost access to cellular data right after updating to iOS 13, you’re not alone. This is a common post-update glitch that can make apps, browsers, and other online services unusable when you’re not on Wi-Fi. The issue is often software-related, and with the right steps, you can get mobile data working again.

Here’s what to do when cellular data stops working on your iPhone XS Max after an iOS 13 update.

1. Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off

This quick trick resets your phone’s wireless radios and is surprisingly effective for fixing minor connection issues.

To do it:

Go to Settings > Airplane Mode.
Turn it on, wait 10 seconds, then turn it off again.
Wait for your phone to reconnect to the carrier network.

Try using Safari or another app to test your mobile data.

2. Turn Cellular Data Off and Back On

Sometimes all it takes is refreshing the mobile data connection.

Steps:

Go to Settings > Cellular.
Toggle Cellular Data off, wait a few seconds, then toggle it on again.

Then launch a web browser or app to check if you’re back online.

3. Check for Carrier Settings Update

Carriers often release updates after major iOS versions to fix network compatibility issues.

To check for updates:

Go to Settings > General > About.
Wait a few seconds—if an update is available, a pop-up will appear.
Follow the prompts to install it.

You’ll need a Wi-Fi connection to download these settings if your mobile data is completely down.

4. Reset Network Settings

Misconfigured settings or bad update leftovers can break your connection. Resetting network settings can help fix that.

Here’s how:

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
Tap Reset Network Settings.
Enter your passcode and confirm.

This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and VPN settings but won’t delete personal data.

5. Remove and Reinsert Your SIM Card

A loose or slightly dislodged SIM card can interrupt cellular connectivity.

To do it safely:

Power off your iPhone.
Use a SIM eject tool (or paperclip) to remove the SIM tray.
Remove and inspect the SIM—clean gently if needed.
Reinsert it properly and power your phone back on.

Wait for your phone to reconnect, then test cellular data again.

6. Try a Different Network Mode (Optional)

Some users found success switching LTE off temporarily:

Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data.
Try switching from LTE to 3G (or vice versa) and test your connection.

You can switch it back afterward if there’s no improvement.

Still Not Working? Try These Advanced Fixes

➤ Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If the issue persists and you’ve backed up your data:

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.

Set your phone up as new, test cellular data, then restore your backup if things work fine.

➤ Restore via iTunes or Finder

You can also use Recovery Mode or DFU Mode via your computer to reinstall iOS completely and fix deep software corruption.

Check with Your Carrier

If everything fails:

Make sure your data plan is active and paid.
Ask if there are outages or account issues that may block mobile data.
If needed, request a SIM card replacement.

You Can Also Use a Repair Tool

If you don’t want to erase your device, try third-party iOS repair tools like:

ReiBoot
iMyFone Fixppo
Dr.Fone – Repair

These apps are designed to fix iOS bugs without data loss.