Apple says iPhone 18 Pro Max units on AT&T may need hardware replacement after cellular loss
Apple confirmed that a small number of iPhone 18 Pro Max phones on AT&T can lose cellular service, offering software updates to prevent further cases but requiring hardware replacement for affected devices.
Apple confirmed that a limited number of iPhone 18 Pro Max devices using the AT&T network may lose cellular service, displaying an “SOS” indicator and preventing calls, texts and data. The company released iOS 27.0.1 and a carrier settings update intended to stop the problem from occurring in other units. The carrier settings update will be downloaded automatically within 14 days, though users can trigger it manually via Settings → General → About.
“We have identified an issue affecting a small number of iPhone 18 Pro Max users on the AT&T network that may cause a device to lose service and be unable to make calls. We released iOS 27.0.1 earlier this week and strongly encourage all iPhone 18 Pro Max users to update now, and are also issuing a carrier settings update today. These updates together are meant to help prevent this issue from occurring.”
Apple noted that the software updates will not restore service for phones that have already lost connectivity; those users must obtain a hardware replacement by contacting Apple Support, AT&T, or visiting an Apple Store or AT&T location. The issue appears limited to the iPhone 18 Pro Max, which uses a Qualcomm modem, while the iPhone 18 Pro with Apple’s C2 modem is not affected.