Why Is My iPhone Stuck in SOS Mode? How to Fix it [2025]

Harsh Kushwah
February 20, 2025

iPhone stuck in SOS mode: It is a safety feature that allows users to quickly contact emergency services. However, sometimes the iphone gets stuck on emergency SOS unexpectedly. This issue might emerge due to many factors and poses trouble in normal use.

When an iPhone is stuck in SOS mode, users may be unable to make regular calls, send texts, or access essential features. Resolving this issue quickly is crucial to restoring full functionality and ensuring uninterrupted communication.

In this guide, you’ll explore why your iPhone might be stuck in SOS mode and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

What is Emergency SOS Mode?

Emergency SOS on your iPhone allows you to quickly call 911 or local emergency services. In some regions, you may need to set up this feature in advance.

When the call ends, your iPhone will automatically send a text to your emergency contacts, notifying them that you called emergency services. The message will include your name and let them know you’ve listed them as an emergency contact.

If your location changes, your iPhone will update your emergency contacts. You may also get a prompt to cancel the notification before it is sent.

When and Why is an iPhone Stuck in SOS Mode?

iPhone stuck in SOS mode when it cannot connect to its usual carrier but can still access emergency services through another available network. This is commonly seen in areas with weak or no signal.

Why is my phone stuck in SOS mode?

If your iPhone shows “SOS” instead of signal bars and only allows emergency calls, it means your phone is in SO mode. This can happen due to:

Network problems (weak or no signal)
Software bugs causing glitches
System updates that affect connectivity
SIM card issues (damaged or not detected)
Jailbreaking errors disrupting normal functions

No matter the cause, you can try some troubleshooting steps to fix it and restore full network access.

How to Get Your iPhone Out of SOS Mode?

If your iPhone is stuck in SOS mode, follow these steps to restore normal service:

iphone stuck in sos mode — get to know how to get phone out of sos mode

1. Check Network Coverage

Move to an area with better signal reception.
Toggle Airplane Mode on and off from Control Center or Settings > Airplane Mode.

2. Restart Your iPhone

Restart your device normally.
If that doesn’t work, force restart your iPhone: iPhone 13, 14, 15: Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down. Press and hold the Side Button until you see the Apple logo.

3. Check SIM Card

Remove the SIM card, clean it, and reinsert it.
Try using a different SIM card to see if the issue is with your SIM.

4. Update iOS

Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates.

5. Reset Network Settings

If the issue persists, reset your network settings: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

6. Contact Your Carrier

Check for service outages in your area.
Ensure your mobile plan is active and your SIM is not deactivated.

7. Factory Reset (Last Resort)

Back up your data using iCloud or iTunes before proceeding.
To reset: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

If none of these steps work, visit an Apple Store or contact Apple Support for further assistance.

Common iPhone Models Affected by SOS Mode Issues

Have a look at common iPhone models affected by SOS Mode Issues:

iPhone 13 Stuck In SOS Mode

iPhone 13 users have reported instances where their devices become stuck in SOS mode, often due to network and SIM-related issues. This problem can sometimes be resolved by reinserting the SIM card or resetting network settings.

iPhone 14 stuck On SOS Mode / iPhone 14 Pro stuck On SOS Mode

For iPhone 14 and 14 Pro models, potential software glitches have been identified as a cause for devices getting stuck in SOS mode. Updating to the latest iOS version or performing a soft restart may help alleviate this issue.

iPhone 15 Stuck On SOS Mode

iPhone 15 users have experienced SOS mode activation due to known compatibility and network concerns. Ensuring that both the device and carrier settings are up-to-date is recommended to prevent such occurrences.

Final Thoughts

iPhone stuck in SOS mode is one of the most common iPhone issues. To fix SOS mode issues, check your network connection, update carrier settings, and ensure your SIM card is working properly. If the problem continues, contact Apple Support for further assistance.

To prevent future issues, keep your device updated, enable automatic network selection, and monitor carrier updates. These simple steps can help maintain a stable connection and avoid unexpected SOS mode activation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on iphone stuck in sos mode:

Why does my phone say SOS?

Your phone says SOS when it has lost connection to your carrier’s network but can still make emergency calls. This can happen due to weak signals, SIM card issues, or network outages.

What does SOS mean on iPhone?

On an iPhone, SOS means the device is out of regular network coverage but can still contact emergency services. It typically appears when there’s no service or network issues.

Why is my iPhone 15 stuck in SOS mode?

Your iPhone 15 might be in SOS mode due to poor network coverage, carrier issues, or a faulty SIM card. Try moving to a different location, reinserting the SIM, or resetting network settings.

Why is my iPhone 14 stuck in SOS mode?

If your iPhone 14 is stuck in SOS mode, it could be caused by a software glitch, an outdated iOS version, or network restrictions. Restart the phone, update iOS, or contact your carrier for assistance.

How do I unfreeze my iPhone SOS?

Force restart your iPhone by pressing and quickly releasing the volume up button, then the volume down button, and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears. If the issue persists, check for iOS updates or reset network settings.

Harsh Kushwah

Hello! I’m a passionate Tech Content Writer with over 4 years of experience delivering insightful, engaging, and impactful content for top-tier clients and brands, including Forbes and leading tech news websites.As a seasoned ghostwriter, I’ve honed my skills in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences while reflecting the unique voice and goals of my clients. I primarily work as a freelance writer, and I’m proud to be recognized as one of the top-listed writers on Fiverr.With a B.Tech in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, I bring a solid technical foundation to my writing. My expertise allows me to distill complex concepts into reader-friendly content that caters to tech-savvy audiences and casual readers alike.In addition to my writing skills, I offer advanced knowledge of SEO, enabling clients to boost their content's visibility and reach. Whether it’s exploring the latest technology trends, explaining cutting-edge innovations, or delivering thought-provoking insights, I’m committed to producing content that adds value and engages genuine readers.