The SOS feature on an iPhone is a critical safety tool that allows users to quickly call emergency services and notify emergency contacts.
When faced with an emergency, the ability to quickly contact emergency services using the SOS feature on your iPhone can be lifesaving.
However, if you’re an AT&T customer and find that the SOS functionality on your iPhone is not working, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. The error commonly occurs because the SOS feature may not be enabled or need to update the carrier software.
In this article, we’ll explore some steps to troubleshoot and resolve issues with the SOS feature on an AT&T iPhone.
What is The iPhone SOS?
The Emergency SOS feature on an iPhone is designed to help you contact emergency services and your emergency contacts quickly.
When activated, the phone will emit an alarm sound, call emergency services, and send your location to your emergency contacts if set up.
Common Reasons for AT&T iPhone SOS Feature Malfunction
There are a few reasons why the SOS feature may not work as expected:
1. Software Glitches
A temporary software issue could prevent the SOS feature from functioning correctly.
2. Disabled Settings
If the SOS feature is not set up or has been accidentally disabled, it won’t work during an emergency.
3. Network Issues
Since the SOS feature requires a network connection to make a call, any network-related problems could impede its functionality.
Steps to Troubleshoot AT&T iPhone SOS Is Not Working Issue
If you have SOS issue on iPhone using AT&T network, first check the network connection , verify the SOS settings , restart your iPhone. Finally, try resting network settings and updating the carrier settings to fix the SOS feature.
1. Check Network Connectivity
Ensure your iPhone has a strong AT&T network signal. If you see ‘No Service’ or ‘Searching,‘ there might be a network outage or you could be in an area with poor coverage.
To check for service outages on AT&T, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the AT&T Service Outage Information page.
- Sign in with your “AT&T account” credentials if necessary.
- Follow the prompts to check if there are any reported outages in your area.
Alternatively, you can also use the AT&T mobile app to check for outages or contact AT&T customer service for assistance.
To check for a service outage using the AT&T mobile app, follow these steps:
- Open the “AT&T mobile app” on your smartphone.
- Log in with your AT&T “user ID and password” if you’re not already logged in.
- Navigate to the support or account section of the app.
- Look for an option labeled ‘‘Check for Outages’‘ or similar.
- Follow the prompts to see if there are any service outages in your area that may be affecting your service.
If you don’t have the AT&T mobile app, you can download it from the App Store for iOS devices or Google Play Store for Android devices.
2. Verify SOS Settings On Your iPhone
The emergency SOS feature may not be enabled in your iPhone. Make sure ‘Call with Side Button’ or ‘Auto Call’ is enabled, depending on your preference.
For iOS:
- Open the “Settings” app.
- Scroll down and tap “Emergency SOS.”
- Ensure the “Call with Side Button” or “Auto Call” is toggled on as per your preference.
Update iOS
Outdated software can cause connectivity issues including SOS functionality. Updating the OS will fix unnecessary issue and fix the error. Make sure your phone’s software is updated to the latest version.
For updating iOS on your iPhone or iPad:
- Connect your device to Wi-Fi.
- Go to the “Settings“ app.
- Tap “General,” then “Software Update.”
- Tap “Download and Install” for any available update.
- If asked, enter your passcode.
Remember to keep your device connected to Wi-Fi and plugged into power during the update process.
3. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches and helps the device to work on normal state.
- Press and hold the side button and either volume button, then slide to power off.
- After a few seconds, turn the phone back on.
4. Reset Network Settings
Resetting network settings removes any interruptions in signal flow and help to establish the fresh connection. This can resolve network-related issues but will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
For an AT&T Apple (iOS) device:
- Open the “Settings” app.
- Tap “General.”
- Scroll down and select “Transfer or Reset iPhone” or “Reset.”
- Choose “Reset Network Settings.”
- Enter your passcode if prompted and confirm that you want to reset network settings.
5. Check for Carrier Settings Update
Sometimes, a carrier settings update is required for network-related features. A carrier settings update on an iPhone is a small file that can include updates from Apple and your carrier to carrier-related settings, such as network, calling, cellular data, messaging, personal hotspot, and voicemail settings. These updates are designed to improve your device’s ability to connect to your carrier’s network and typically include enhancements to performance, functionality, or fixes for existing issues. Carrier settings updates are separate from iOS software updates and are specific to your particular carrier and country.
To check for a carrier settings update on your iOS device, follow these steps:
- Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi or a cellular network.
- Open the “Settings” app.
- Tap “General.”
- Tap “About.”
- Go to “Carrier“
- If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt to update your carrier settings. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
6. Contact AT&T or Apple Support
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be time to seek professional help. Contact AT&T customer support for further assistance. You can also visit an AT&T store where a representative can help diagnose and fix the issue.
When you’re experiencing issues with your iPhone or AT&T service, knowing how to contact Apple Support or AT&T Support can help you quickly resolve any problems.
Contacting Apple Support
If your issue is related to the hardware or software of your iPhone, iPad, or other Apple products, you should reach out to Apple Support. Here’s how:
- Online: Visit the Apple Support website to find articles, user guides, and troubleshooting tips. You can also start a live chat or schedule a call with an Apple Support representative.
- Phone: Call Apple Support directly. The number varies by country, but in the United States, you can call 1-800-692-7753.
- Apple Support App: Download and use the Apple Support app to find answers to your questions and talk to an Apple Support advisor directly.
Contacting AT&T Support
If the issue is related to your AT&T service, network coverage, or account management, you should contact AT&T Support:
- Online: Go to the AT&T Support Center for a wide range of support options, including live chat, forums, and troubleshooting tools.
- Phone: Call AT&T’s customer service line at “1-800-331-0500” for wireless service support or “1-800-288-2020” for internet or home phone service.
- AT&T Store: Visit an AT&T store to speak with a representative in person for help with your service or account.
Before reaching out to support, it’s a good idea to have your device, account information, and a summary of the issue ready to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution process.
