Verizon outage: Why is my iPhone in SOS mode? Know when will it go away

Verizon faced significant service disruptions, prompting over 235,000 reports from users. The company is aware of the issue and is actively addressing it.

Updated on: Jan 15, 2026, 24:28:04 IST

By Shweta Kukreti

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Verizon users reported significant problems on Wednesday, with many observing what seems to be extensive service interruptions.

Verizon outage: The company acknowledged the issue and is working to resolve it, as many users reported their devices were in SOS mode due to lack of connectivity. (Apple)

User-reported problems surged on Downdetector around noon, Eastern time on Wednesday.

Verizon is presently experiencing a substantial service outage, with a cumulative total of 235,373 reports logged in the past 24 hours, stated Downdetector.

Verizon's support page on X stated that it acknowledged users were experiencing difficulties and that it was actively addressing the issue.

“We are aware of an issue impacting wireless voice and data services for some customers,” the account wrote. “Our engineers are engaged and are working to identify and solve the issue quickly. We understand how important reliable connectivity is and apologize for the inconvenience.”

Several users on social media reported that their phones were in SOS mode.

Also Read: Verizon outage map: Which US cities are affected? Here's when will services be restored

Why is my phone in SOS mode? What is SOS mode?

If you have an iPhone, the SOS mode serves as a notification indicating that your device lacks a proper cellular connection, which means you can only contact emergency services via the cellular network.

Models such as the iPhone 14 and newer are equipped with satellite SOS functionality, allowing you to reach 911 even when you are beyond the coverage of any cellular service, except in locations where no signal can be transmitted at all.

Android devices also permit you to dial 911 without an active service, although this feature is not referred to as SOS mode.

When there is no service available, the SOS icon will be displayed in the upper right corner of an iPhone's screen, where the cellular connection bars are typically shown.

For an iPhone 13 or earlier models, if you move out of the range of any cellular service, the icon will change to "No service" until you return to an area with coverage.

When will SOS mode be deactivated?

SOS mode is triggered automatically when your phone carrier does not provide any cell service. If you are facing an outage, you will need to wait until service is restored in your vicinity. If SOS mode is activated due to being outside your network's coverage area, you must return to the coverage area in order to make calls.

Is it still possible to use my phone in SOS mode?

Although SOS mode signifies a lack of cellular service, it does not render the phone inoperative. The majority of contemporary phones permit calling, texting, and internet browsing via Wi-Fi. Therefore, if you have an internet connection through a Wi-Fi signal, you can utilize your phone as usual. However, you will only be able to reach other phones that are connected to a Wi-Fi network while in SOS mode.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shweta Kukreti
Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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