No service after iOS 11 update

iPhone 6 Plus getting searching or no service. I can make phone calls/iMessage while on WiFi. I’ve tried these steps:


1. Turn on/off, hard shut off as well.

2. Turn on/off airplane mode, cellular, LTE, roaming.

3. Reset network settings.

4. Reset all settings. (Worked for a day only).

5. Update to 11.1 iOS and 30.1 carrier update.

6. Check time and date settings.

7. Took out SIM card.

8. Took off case.

9. No water damages.

10. Restore (Worked for a day).


Looked at multiple sites and so far it still says searching. AT&T account is good. I have 5 iPhones on my account and they have not updated and they still work. (iPhone 5s, 6, 6, 7, 7). Trying to avoid going to the Apple store as I know they will probably throw a $320 charge as I’m out of warranty. Any tips is welcomed!

Posted on Nov 6, 2017 5:37 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 13, 2018 1:38 AM

This is my experienced SOLUTION for the intermittent and consistent "No Service or Searching" and Cellular Data/Cellular Network connectivity issue on one of my company’s mobile device. Problem was not a device software/hardware issue, which is especially demonstrated for those who have a new device or have performed a full device reset. Apologies in advance for the lengthy reply and hope this steers you as well as others towards a permanent resolution.


Device Information was incorrectly logged in the wireless carrier's system.


Step 1 - Accurately confirm your Device Information. First, go to Settings>Phone to view My Number (phone number). Second, go to Settings>General>About to view the device's Serial #, IMEI, ICCID, etc. IMEI=International Mobile Equipment Identity and this 15-digit serial # differs from the manufacturer’s serial #. ICCID=Integrated Circuit Card Identifier and this 20-digit # directly references the SIM card that's physically installed in device’s external port.


Step 2 - Contact your wireless carrier and ask them to verify that pertinent device info is respectively aligned. Just an FYI, a carrier’s system may demonstrate info correctly, but a refresh of info may be required in their system so that correct functionality is stimulated. ASK THEM TO CLEAR OUT ALL OF THEIR LOGGED FIELDS FOR DEVICE INFO AND RE-ENTER THE INFO. They should also ask you to power down your device during this process. Begin with the basic info assigned in their system, such as phone number and iPhone 5, 5S, 6, 6S, 7, 8, X. Next, confirm the serialized type info. ICCID is critical. Be prepared to replace the carrier’s provided SIM card should the ICCID not match their system. Once device is powered up and is functioning correctly through cellular service ONLY, it’s also a good time to ensure that the Visual Voicemail is functioning. You or they, using another phone, can leave a test voicemail.


***Resolution steps above makes assumptions of mobile device general readiness.***


Refer to https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201415. I’m sure I’ve missed some, but a few examples of readiness are as follows:

Device isn’t damaged.

Device appropriate SIM card is correctly installed.

Device cellular is turned on and cellular settings within device are correctly configured.

Device software is updated to iOS 8 or later version.

Device is manufactured specifically for and/or approved for use through wireless carrier.

Within wireless carrier service area and no cellular outages.

Wireless carrier account is in good standing/active and there isn't service type block referencing your device's IMEI. Blocks/blacklisting logged by wireless carrier can be from device reported as lost or stolen.

Carrier Settings update has been installed on device. If cellular or Wi-Fi service is available when checking Carrier version installed, you’ll see a pop up window for a Carrier Settings Update Available. Go to Settings>General>About and wait a few moments. Apply this update whenever it’s available.


Cheers & Good Luck!

John

137 replies

Nov 18, 2017 6:08 PM in response to Burnzoire

Just called AT&T and talked to them for 3 hours. Only been transferred to 5 different people and none of them could fix it after trying to reset on their end. Service and area coverage is all good from what they said.

Last hope is probably waiting to see if an update will fix this otherwise a new phone is having to come.

Nov 20, 2017 12:21 PM in response to TAL95

My wife has the same issue, Carrier MintSim. I have tried all the instructions. The only way I was able to have render Service was when I did a Factory Restore, did not enter apple id, did not update carrier (per Apple phone support). It worked for an hour, now no service. I was getting ready to have go back to ATT but now I am afraid it will just be more of the same. She went to MintSim back in October before the iOS 11 update came out. It work just find for 2 maybe 3 weeks. Then after the update she notice issues but it was while driving and talking hands free so we didn’t pay any attention to it. Until finally, one day, no service or searching. That is it.


I do hope an new update comes quick. I feel for those if this is there only phone, no way to call anyone for support.


Calvin

Jan 7, 2018 7:33 PM in response to yarylee

Hi yarylee,

I finally got this resolved on a device I essentially put away, by having an excellent carrier rep and Apple rep work with me on this. Between the two of them and perseverance, we got it done. Took some time as wifi was awful and we hit a few bumps, but we all hung in there and got the signal going again to my GREAT surprise. I had given up, then decided to finally give it a go again.

Maybe I'm one of the lucky ones but the two techs working together as well as working with me & vice-versa is the only thing that worked. I started with the carrier, then the carrier had Apple join in and further assist and confirm. I really feel I won the lottery in getting two techs who were not only knowledgeable but also willing to put in the effort.

Wishing everyone the best, as no signal is not okay and extremely upsetting

Jan 24, 2018 10:35 AM in response to evilipoo

No resolution, the only resolution is update the phone, we still with the same problem...Apple told us was the antena of the phone was broken, then why sometime I get signal...Verizon refresh the account, we reset the phone an set up as a new and nothing happen...Verizon mention that 11 update toast the sim or the slot... that means if your phone is without warranty, is better you update or get a new one because none will be responsable for it... Apple told us don’t warranty, we can’t do nothing even if was apple update who toast the phone, apple making more money

Jan 24, 2018 11:51 PM in response to evilipoo

Apple doesn't consider these threads credible nor specific to each person and device, and certainly each issue although there are commonalities for some, naturally.

This is a user only forum and as such, very subjective. I'd not use it as a credible source and point out to be careful, as people can say anything and add "unique" additions. Also, you'll find all of a sudden certain ones take on your EXACT issue and the attitude attached yet they lack very specific, proven data to support...easy for users to become cynical here & other similar forums if not careful.

The best route is to offer objective and true feedback via apple.com/feedback specific to your individual situation with documentation and steps taken thus far along with realistic ways that may assist you and others.

Also, you can always get the issue fixed, even if you have to switch carriers or devices.

But typically, the vast majority of customers get their issues taken care of by their carrier or Apple...unusual if a customer has to switch, but it happens and is often advised to do so, if it's in the best interest of the customer.

I've had a few carriers over time suggest I get service from another carrier more suited to provide proper coverage in my area, depending on where i lived and factors pertinent to my issue at the time. I've had Samsung suggest looking into another device as an option, when I really wanted a particular option on my device that I thought it would include but didn't. Same with Microsoft and Apple for a few things, so I always felt assured that it was in my control to make a decision as to how to resolve numerous issues with various companies....

All advice came from professional support staff knowledgeable in their products, others' products and info related to their product or service, had documentation to support, and offered me options specific to me, my needs and wants. Only type of representatives I would accept guidance from...

Always do what is in your best interest and move forth with productive measures that suit you and make you content. It's made my life much easier taking this approach ~

Jan 29, 2018 11:59 AM in response to JFWW

It's clearly a deficiency in the hardware or software that day-lighted after recent iOS updates. The very same pattern was observed in all reports here, it's very irresponsible of Apple that does not take the responsibility. I was also forced to change the phone. But I found it more economical to use Verizon's 50% upgrade deal, meaning that I returned the phone to Verizon after one year of use, and they stooped charging me $35/month for the second year. Then got a new phone for the same ~$35/month.

Feb 10, 2018 9:44 AM in response to Monicanstr

Hi Monicanstr,


If you have an iPhone 7, this may be applicable to you:


iPhone 7 Repair Program for "No Service" Issues

Apple has determined that a small percentage of iPhone 7 devices may show "No Service" in the status bar (even if cellular coverage is available), due to a component that has failed on the main logic board.

These affected units were manufactured between September 2016 and February 2018 and sold in China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macao, and the U.S. See below for iPhone 7 model numbers that are covered in this program.

If your device exhibits the symptom described above, Apple will repair your device, free of charge. Your iPhone will be examined prior to any service to verify that it is eligible for this program. This program only applies to iPhone 7.

Apple will be contacting customers via email who may have paid for a repair related to this issue to arrange for reimbursement. If you believe you paid for a repair related to this issue, and have not received an email from Apple by the end of March 2018, please contact Apple.

Below are the three model numbers that are eligible for this program. You can find the model number on the back of your iPhone 7.

Model number Country/Region
A1660, A1780 China
A1660 Hong Kong
Macao
U.S. (includes Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands)
A1779 Japan
User uploaded file

Service process

Choose one of the service options below to have your iPhone 7 repaired. In all cases, your iPhone will be sent to an Apple Repair Center for service.

  • Apple Authorized Service Provider - Find one here.
  • Apple Retail Store - Make an appointment here.
  • Apple Technical Support - Contact us.

Note: Wireless carrier partners are not participating in this program.

Before service, backup your iPhone to iTunes or iCloud. Learn more about preparing your iPhone for service.

If your iPhone 7 has any damage which impairs the ability to complete the repair, such as a cracked screen, that issue will need to be resolved prior to the service. In some cases, there may be a cost associated with the additional repair.

Additional information

Apple may restrict or limit repair to the original country or region of purchase.

This Apple program doesn't extend the standard warranty coverage of the iPhone 7.

The program covers affected iPhone 7 devices for 2 years after the first retail sale of the unit.

Information as of 2018-02-02

Feb 12, 2018 3:11 PM in response to yarylee

i had this problem for the past 2 month and just solved it now...after searching all websites, forums, going to apple and facebook comments.. some one posted this way and i thought it was a joke or he is trying to be funny but it worked with me from the first time when i followed the steps exactly.. i know it will feel like you are crazy but that exactly what made my phone work and wanna share it with you guys who had the same problem like me and posted a lot of times without any reply from apple representative..my iPhone is 6..

I just followed the steps that Were provided. 1. Go to setting 2. Go to general 3. Go to reset and select rest network setting 4. As the phone is about to reset, once u see the apple logo, with ur phone screen Facing downwards, try bending the phone but gently so as not to crack the screen. Press till the reboot is complete. Hope it works for u.

Nov 19, 2017 5:36 AM in response to panchososa694

Seriously, what part of any of our posts makes to think we haven’t tried ever single one of them steps!!!!!

Try reporting this thread to your managers and telling them there is a fault with the update that is effecting certain batches of iPhones, then they can look into it and do another product recall like the iPhone 5 battery recall issued a few years ago!!!!!

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

No service after iOS 11 update

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