cellular/LTE does not work after IOS 17.4.1

After the latest update(IOS 17.4.1), my cellular stopped working. From the Mobile Data Options (Voice Data), it does not allow me to choose LTE despite clicking on it. It only allows 5G Auto or 5G On. I choose 5G On so it can shift to LTE automatically. However, it does not work, and I see LTE sign flashing on my phone. Even if it is fixed for a short period, it says my cellular is off when I try to use the internet.

iPhone 14 Pro Max

Posted on Apr 13, 2024 8:12 AM

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Posted on Apr 18, 2024 12:55 PM

An update - as I now have data working again - in case it helps anyone:


Just in case this helps anyone, just letting people know that I’ve got access to data back by going to an Apple Store (after diagnostics done by Apple Support determined it would be worth doing so booked me an appointment). They said they are not aware of any issue with the latest iOS update (…I lost access data after doing it but who knows…) but confirmed I was having connectivity issues (which I knew). I had backed up on iCloud / iTunes at home and they decided to do a factory reset. Their system automatically checks and does software updates before it resets the phone and interestingly she said that despite my phone telling me and her on screen that the iOS was up to date, there was still “some” not quite updated - ie it was almost as if some of the update had not updated properly, even though it appeared to be according to the phone… I saw this myself on screen when she left me while it updated: there was still "something" to update there… so maybe for some people the update is not fully moving across (despite it telling you that it has) or whether it was some even newer version of the update from them (despite your phone telling you you have the latest update you can), I’m not quite sure. Anyway, they did the factory reset, set it up as if a brand new phone (make sure you know your Apple ID login before doing this) and I immediately had 4G again. All is now working, and for anyone worried about doing a reset just to confirm that it hasn’t been as big a hassle as I thought it might be… just a case of re-downloading apps (which you’ll find a list of in your app store) and getting photos etc back from iCloud (which they said may take 24hrs but was instant for me). I am aware you can do a factory reset at home but for me doing it with the staff in store was useful because, as I say, they seemed to get access to the "rest" of the update (that my phone didn’t tell me was missing) or perhaps an even newer version of it… and all is good now. I recommend getting an appointment at the store before you go via Apple Support - this meant I was seen for a convenient slot an hour after I spoke to Apple Support vs people walking in and asking for help were being asked to wait until the following day at midday. Sorry this was such a long description - I’m aware too long for most people - but giving just in case there’s a small aspect of something I mention here that helps someone else.

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19 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 18, 2024 12:55 PM in response to sum1234

An update - as I now have data working again - in case it helps anyone:


Just in case this helps anyone, just letting people know that I’ve got access to data back by going to an Apple Store (after diagnostics done by Apple Support determined it would be worth doing so booked me an appointment). They said they are not aware of any issue with the latest iOS update (…I lost access data after doing it but who knows…) but confirmed I was having connectivity issues (which I knew). I had backed up on iCloud / iTunes at home and they decided to do a factory reset. Their system automatically checks and does software updates before it resets the phone and interestingly she said that despite my phone telling me and her on screen that the iOS was up to date, there was still “some” not quite updated - ie it was almost as if some of the update had not updated properly, even though it appeared to be according to the phone… I saw this myself on screen when she left me while it updated: there was still "something" to update there… so maybe for some people the update is not fully moving across (despite it telling you that it has) or whether it was some even newer version of the update from them (despite your phone telling you you have the latest update you can), I’m not quite sure. Anyway, they did the factory reset, set it up as if a brand new phone (make sure you know your Apple ID login before doing this) and I immediately had 4G again. All is now working, and for anyone worried about doing a reset just to confirm that it hasn’t been as big a hassle as I thought it might be… just a case of re-downloading apps (which you’ll find a list of in your app store) and getting photos etc back from iCloud (which they said may take 24hrs but was instant for me). I am aware you can do a factory reset at home but for me doing it with the staff in store was useful because, as I say, they seemed to get access to the "rest" of the update (that my phone didn’t tell me was missing) or perhaps an even newer version of it… and all is good now. I recommend getting an appointment at the store before you go via Apple Support - this meant I was seen for a convenient slot an hour after I spoke to Apple Support vs people walking in and asking for help were being asked to wait until the following day at midday. Sorry this was such a long description - I’m aware too long for most people - but giving just in case there’s a small aspect of something I mention here that helps someone else.

Apr 22, 2024 11:29 AM in response to sum1234

I solved the issue by returning to factory settings. Initially I backed up all data/photo etc. I used iCloud back up except for my photos, for which I used Mac import option. Then I restored my iPhone via Mac finder (connected through charger cable). After I downloaded all data from iCloud, I also reverted photos from my Mac. Now it works normal. Before starting the process, make sure you know your Apple ID /passcode as it will ask a couple of times. All takes hours :(( you can follow the steps here: Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support


i hope it works for you as well

Apr 22, 2024 1:20 PM in response to sum1234

I had the exact same issue since the update. I got in touch with my provider and the SIM was working perfectly so nothing they could do on their end. They did send me a new one, which I tried but it didn’t fix the issue.


What did work was restoring from factory settings (make sure to backup first!) 4G returned straight away and also in Mobile Data Settings 5G Auto / 5G On / 4G


If you need any help with this, get in touch with Apple. They were honestly brilliant. I was also told that it’s a known fault and in the next update there will be a fix for this.


Hope this helps

Apr 18, 2024 7:00 AM in response to sum1234

I have the same issue with no access to data (and therefore calls and texts etc) when away from wifi since the 17.4.1 update and despite trying everything listed online, suggested by people etc. For anyone with GiffGaff there is a temporary workaround by which you can call 43430, then while still connected to the call open a web page, then drop the call, and it leaves you connected to LTE. This does work for me. (I don’t know if there is an equivalent temporary work around with other mobile phone providers). However, what’s clearly needed is a 17.4.5 update to sort this issue… Someone on a forum (not someone who works for Apple) told me there is one on its way but I hope that’s true and that it’s very, very soon!


Apr 13, 2024 10:09 AM in response to sum1234

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.


Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



Apr 13, 2024 10:10 AM in response to sum1234

There may be a known issue with your device


It surely is not iOS 17.4.1 because...


I conducted a thorough search of this forum using the term 'Cellular network after iOS' and uncovered numerous posts detailing similar issues across various iOS updates. This suggests that iOS updates may not consistently be the root cause. Below are a handful of examples extracted from over 6,000 search results:


"After iOS 17.4.1" will be an addition to this list posted by you.



Apr 14, 2024 4:17 AM in response to sum1234

I’m having the exact same issues. I have intensively checked and rechecked all of my device settings but cannot correct the problem. I have checked with my network provider and there no issue with my account or data usage. I have run a reboot twice.

whatever I do I cannot access the internet or data via 3G/4G the phone tells me there is no internet and to turn on cellular data. My settings do not have anything named cellular data but I do have mobile data which is switched on. I also have exact same issues described by Sum1234 above.

a solution would be warmly welcomed!! HELP!!

Apr 15, 2024 10:53 AM in response to zapphood

I feel like I’m getting somewhere, even if I know not what it is yet….when I tap it now it’s changed to 58.0 I’m getting PRL 1.

4 others in my household have similar/same phones/settings/update/provider and don’t have the issues I do. I have just checked their network provider settings & they have 02 58.0 and when I tap it, it changes to IMS Status Voice & SMS.

So I’m now thinking my issue relates to my SIM card?

thanks for highlighting this Zapphood, any further guidance would be warmly received.

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cellular/LTE does not work after IOS 17.4.1

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