Cellular error on IPhone 5s with IOS 12.5.1 update. Also phone now locked when it was not locked before. Do I have to throw it away or is there a fix?

Cellular error on iPhone 5s on 3/21/2021 after iOS update 12.5.1 I believe. Tried all suggested solutions to no avail. This ph bought on EBay 3 years ago and unlocked by Sprint before moving to Thailand. Have used for a year here with no issues until 2 days ago. Believe Apple update caused this but they have no solution. This ph still for sale everywhere for $100 so cannot spend much to fix. Apple does not care apparently. Anyone have same issue?

Posted on Mar 22, 2021 6:36 AM

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5 replies

Mar 23, 2021 6:51 AM in response to wilpra44

Hey wilpra44,


If we understand correctly, you received a cellular error message on the iPhone. What was the error message you received? You may need to update your carrier settings.


Update your carrier settings on your iPhone or iPad


If you see No Service or Searching on your iPhone or iPad


Please don't hesitate to let us know if the steps resolved your issue or if you need additional assistance.


Thank you for using Apple Support Communities. Have a good one.

Mar 24, 2021 6:51 AM in response to wilpra44

Hello wilpra44,


Thanks for the update. One thing you could try is to remove and put back the SIM card in the iPhone. You can also try resetting the network settings to see if the error goes away.


Remove or switch the SIM card in your iPhone or iPad


Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This also resets Wi-Fi networks and passwords, cellular settings, and VPN and APN settings that you've used before.

If you see No Service or Searching on your iPhone or iPad


Have a nice day.

Mar 23, 2021 5:45 PM in response to mario49

In settings it literally says "error" next to the Cellular setting. Clicking I then get a notice that says "An Update is required to use cellular data on this iphone."


I am going to vent.


There is a link that says "Learn More" taking me to the Apple support solution that does not work. It basically suggests using itunes to update the phone. I have the latest update already, that will work on this old phone, 12.5.1. Next step is to take to Apple service center (there is none here where I am) that will cost more to fix the the value of the phone. I will probably switch to Android after this as easier and cheaper to get service here in Thailand and less hassle. I just like the small size that is harder and harder to find.


I have not given up yet because an error caused by an update should be able to be fixed you would think I have another exact model of this 5S that cannot use either as now when I switch the SIM from the first 5s, it now says phone is locked? (what?) Is was not locked before the updater as I cleared with Sprint before leaving the US and used for awhile here in Thailand. These phones still for sale here but no point if cellular not working? Provider confirms problem not on their end. Looks like I can now only use with Wi-fi. Useless as a phone. Thanks Apple.

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Cellular error on IPhone 5s with IOS 12.5.1 update. Also phone now locked when it was not locked before. Do I have to throw it away or is there a fix?

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