How Do I Get My Phone Out of SOS Mode: Easy Fixes

When your phone shows "SOS Only" or "Emergency Calls Only," it means you can only make emergency calls. This frustrating issue affects both iPhone and Android users. Don't worry - most SOS mode problems can be fixed with the right steps.

Why Phones Get Stuck in SOS Mode

Understanding why SOS mode activates helps you choose the right solution. Here are the most common causes:

Network Connection Problems	Software and Settings Issues	Hardware and SIM Card Problems
Weak or no cellular signal	Software update failures	Damaged or improperly seated SIM card
Carrier network outages	Network configuration errors	eSIM activation failures
Incorrect network settings	Emergency SOS accidental activation	Rare baseband hardware issues

Effective Solutions to Fix Phone Stuck in SOS Mode

We recommend you start with the basic glitches and try to fixthe  iPhone stuck in SOS mode to get your phone working again.

Solution 1. Basic Troubleshooting

These simple steps solve most SOS mode problems and work for both iPhone and Android devices.

Step 1. Restart Your Phone

• For iPhone: Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold Side button until Apple logo appears
• For Android: Hold Power button and tap "Restart" or hold Power + Volume Down for 10 seconds

Step 2. Toggle Airplane Mode

• Swipe down from top of screen (Android) or from top-right corner (iPhone)
• Tap the Airplane icon, wait 10 seconds, then tap again

Step 3. Check Your Signal Strength

• Move to a different location with better reception
• Avoid basements, elevators, and underground areas

★Tip:

Always start with a phone restart - it fixes most temporary software glitches causing stuck on SOS mode.

Solution 2. Network Connection Reset

If basic steps don't work, resetting network settings often solves SOS mode problems.

▶For iPhone:

Step 1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 2. Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Step 3. Enter your passcode and confirm.

▶For Android:

Step 1. Open Settings > System > Reset options.

Step 2. Tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.

Step 3. Confirm the reset.

Solution 3. SIM Card and eSIM Solutions

SIM card issues commonly cause SOS mode. Here's how to fix them:

▶​​​​​​​Physical SIM Cards

Step 1. Power off your phone completely.

Step 2. Use a SIM ejector tool to remove the SIM tray.

Step 3. Clean the SIM card with a soft cloth.

Step 4. Reinsert the SIM card and restart your phone.

 

▶eSIM Troubleshooting

Step 1. For iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan;

For Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Carrier.

Step Contact your carrier for eSIM reconfiguration if needed.

 

Solution 4. Update Software and Carrier Settings

Keeping your software updated prevents many SOS mode issues:

Step 1. Update Your Phone Software

• iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update
• Android: Settings > System > System update

Step 2. Check Carrier Updates

• iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About - wait for update prompt
• Android: Check with your carrier for specific update procedures

Solution 5. Advanced Solutions for iPhone Stuck in SOS mode

When basic methods fail, persistent SOS mode caused by iOS system issues may require professional tools. FoneTool Repair specializes in fixing iOS problems without data loss.

Step 1. Download FoneTool Repair on a Windows PC, connect your iPhone via USB and launch the tool.

Step 2. Choose the iOS System Repair on main interface.

Step 3. Select Standard Mode (recommended for data preservation).

Step 4. Download the firmware package and click Start Repair.

★Tip:

Use FoneTool Repair if SOS mode persists after basic fixes, as it addresses deeper system issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to Contact Professional Help

If you've tried all solutions and your phone remains in SOS mode:

Way 1. Contact Your Carrier

• They can check for network outages in your area
• Verify your account status and service
• Re-provision your SIM or eSIM

Way 2. Visit Manufacturer Support

• Apple Support for iPhones
• Google Pixel Support or your Android manufacturer's service center
• Check for hardware warranty coverage

Conclusion

Getting your phone out of SOS mode is usually straightforward. Start with basic troubleshooting like restarting and toggling airplane mode. If that doesn't work, reset network settings or check your SIM card. For persistent iPhone issues, FoneTool Repair provides an effective solution without data loss. Android users should consider factory reset as a last resort after backing up data.

Remember that most SOS mode problems are software-related and can be fixed without professional help. If all solutions fail, contact your carrier or device manufacturer for further assistance.