If your iPhone XR says “No Service,” that means it can’t connect to your carrier’s network. You won’t be able to make calls, send texts, or use mobile data. In most cases, this is a software-related issue — and it can often be fixed without going to a repair shop.
Here’s what to do if your iPhone XR loses service and won’t reconnect.
Before You Start: Check With Your Carrier
Before troubleshooting your phone, make sure:
- Your account is active and not suspended for billing or fraud reasons.
- There’s no local outage in your area (call your carrier or check their website).
If everything looks good on their end, try the steps below.
Step 1: Toggle Cellular Data Off and On
A quick reset of the cellular connection can help.
- Go to Settings → Cellular.
- Toggle Cellular Data off.
- Restart your iPhone:
- Press and hold the Side button + Volume button until the power slider appears.
- Slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
- Go back to Settings → Cellular and toggle Cellular Data back on.
Step 2: Update Carrier Settings
Carrier settings updates help your phone connect properly to your carrier’s network.
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Go to Settings → General → About.
- If there’s a carrier update available, you’ll see a prompt to Update.
After the update, restart your phone and check for service again.
Step 3: Install the Latest iOS Update
Apple often releases bug fixes for signal and connectivity issues.
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install if an update is available.
- Reboot your iPhone after installing.
Step 4: Reset Network Settings
This will clear any messed-up network configurations.
- Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset.
- Tap Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
Your iPhone will reboot. You’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi, but all cellular settings will reset too.
Step 5: Reseat the SIM Card
A loose or damaged SIM card can cause service issues.
- Turn off your iPhone XR.
- Use a SIM eject tool to pop out the SIM tray (on the right side of the phone).
- Remove the SIM card and check for dirt or damage.
- Gently reinsert the SIM card and push the tray back in.
- Turn your phone back on and check for signal.
If your SIM is damaged, contact your carrier for a replacement.
Still Seeing No Service?
Try these last options:
✅ Try a Different SIM Card
Borrow one from a friend or test yours in another phone. If your iPhone works with another SIM, your current SIM may be faulty.
✅ Try Airplane Mode Trick
- Go to Settings → Airplane Mode and toggle it ON for 10 seconds, then OFF.
- This forces your phone to reconnect to the nearest cell tower.
When to Contact Support
If you’ve tried everything and still see No Service:
- Call your carrier’s support team for advanced troubleshooting.
- Book an appointment with Apple Support or visit an Apple Store to check for hardware issues — like antenna damage or motherboard problems.