How To Fix iPhone 12 No Service Problem (Poor Cellular Signal)
Last updated on August 18th, 2021 at 06:59 am
Posted in TILs by Patricia on October 26, 2020A bunch of readers have mailed us to report that the new iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro flagships are displaying the No Service status bar message! The problem is that this issue occurs when the new flagships are used in areas where older iPhone models did not experience cellular coverage problems.
Any iPhone that displays No Service in the status bar, informs that there is no cellular signal, thus no voice calls and regular text messages can be sent or received. We’ve scanned the web and found similar reports on Reddit. In all cases, users mention that they haven’t changed the carrier or the location.
Does this hint that there might be a hardware problem with the new iPhone 12 antenna bands? This won’t be a first! A huge antenna problem surfaced after the release of the iPhone 4. Apple’s 2010 iPhone model was dropping signal bars and even reaching No Service status when the user’s finger touched the outer edge of the phone. We doubt that Apple could perform the same mistake again. Or?
Important: It appears that the iPhone 12 No Service issue is triggered when the device is switching between carrier cells. The issue can occur even when the user is standing still, if his location is situated at the border of two cellular towers and the device is switching between the two.
How To Fix iPhone 12 No Service Problem
Before attempting the troubleshooting methods described below, if possible, grab a secondary iPhone or smartphone that uses the same carrier, and check its signal coverage. This allows you to eliminate any temporary signal downtime from your carrier’s side.
1. Enable / Disable Airplane Mode
This is the quickest fix that you can apply when No Service is displayed on your iPhone’s status bar. Disabling AirPlane Mode on iPhone will force your terminal to reconnect to the closest cellular cell available and thus restore connectivity.
How To: Swipe-down from the top-right corner of the screen, to bring up the Control Center. Tap the AirPlane Mode icon to enable it. Wait a couple of seconds. Tap the same toggle again to exit AirPlane mode. Check the status bar and notice if the signal bars are back on.
2. Reboot iPhone
Next up, we suggest you to force restart your iPhone. This will not only force your device to reconnect to the carrier when booting back up, but could also eliminate any minor software glitches that might cause your iPhone 12 to display the No Service error.
How To: Quickly click & release Volume Up, Volume Down and press & hold the Side Button until the Apple logo is displayed on the screen.
3A. Check SIM Card
The iPhone 12 connects to your carrier’s network with the help of a SIM card. If you’re using the SIM card from your old iPhone, it might malfunction.
How To: Power off your device, eject the SIM card with the help of the SIM tray tool, that’s still included in the iPhone 12 box! Dust-proof it gently and insert it back in the tray. Power iPhone back ON and fingers crossed!
Fact: One of the iPhone 12 No Service report mentions that the user experiences the problem with both new Verizon SIM that was shipped in the box, as well as the older one. Is this your case too?
3B. Replace SIM Card
(Updated May 5, 2021)
Tim has reported that he managed to fix his iPhone 12 Pro Max No Service issue by replacing the 5G SIM card that he got along his new iPhone with a 4G SIM card provided by Apple support. You can read the detailed report here. Does this help your case? Let us know in the comments section available below!
4. Disable 5G
The iPhone 12 No Service issue could be caused by the new 5G functionality. You can attempt to turn of 5G and see if this helps.
How To: Open the Settings app and browse for Cellular. Tap on Cellular Data Options. Open Voice & Data and select LTE instead of the ‘5G Auto’ default setting. More details available here.
Updated (November 8)
5. Disable Data Roaming
One of our readers Jeremy, has suggested that turning off Data Roaming seems to help with the iPhone 12 No Service problem!
How To: Open Settings and browse for Cellular -> Cellular Data Options. Use the toggle next to Data Roaming to disable it. Does this at least improve the poor signal symptoms on your brand new iPhone 12?
Updated (December 3)
6. Check For Software Update
Make sure that your iPhone runs the most recent software. At the time of updating iOS 14.2, iOS 14.2.1 is the current release for the iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max models! Unfortunately, we’re still getting reports about poor signal and no coverage issues.
Fact: Users, have even tried out iOS 14.3 Beta 3 which is one of the latest version of the upcoming software update and news aren’t encouraging.
Updated (January 15)
7. Manual Network Selection
Quincy has reported that he managed to improve the iPhone 12 cellular signal by switching for manual network selection and disabling 5G Auto!
How To:
1. Browse for Settings -> Cellular -> Network Selection -> Automatic (disable it!) -> Manually select your carrier from the list!.
2. Go for Settings -> Cellular -> Cellular Data Options -> Voice & Data -> Select 5G On instead of 5G Auto!
Does this troubleshooting sequence fix the iPhone 12 No Service issue? Use the comments section and let us know!
Updated (August 18)
8. Avoid iOS 14.7.1
It seems that the iPhone 12 No Service issue is worsened by the iOS 14.7.1 software release. Poor or inexistent cellular signal problems are currently reported for a wide range of iPhone models that have been updated to the latest iOS version. Here you can read more troubleshooting tips.
iPhone 12 No Service Reports From Readers
- Matt: “Both my wife and I have iphone 12s 128GB on Verizion only difference is the color. My phone has had no issues, hers keeps dropping single, one minute it works, one it doesn’t. Someitmes it rings, sometimes it doesn’t. Mine has been fine no issues”.
- Phaelon: “I found this post because I was wondering if others with the new iPhone were having the same issues. I have the new iPhone 12, 128 GB on Verizon. We don’t have 5G in my small city yet.
I’ve found at least a few times that my phone suddenly has no service in areas I’m absolutely sure have had no issues in the past.” - Ke: “Just got my iphone 12, a few days ago, the new iphone has really poor signal. I have two phone numbers in my phone, both of them not work well. The new phone keep losing signal a few times a day. Apple customer service suggested me to contact carrier.”
- Mike: “My new iPhone 12 has lost service more than 5 times in less than a week and I have to turn the phone off then back on because even when you move around it doesn’t regain the service!”
- Geoff: “Just wanted to let you know that I am having the same issue with my iPhone 12 even went and got a new SIM card and it is still the same I have to keep switching to airplane mode never had this issue with my iPhone 11 it worked perfectly.”
- Sean: “Brand new blue iphone 12 pro stopped receiving and sending calls after three days. went to Verizon store and rep said it’s an Apple hardware issue that it is aware of. Told I Need to send my phone back. “
- Dennis: Is trying to fix the iPhone 12 no service issue since a couple of weeks now. He has made numerous interaction with Apple staff and Verizon support and even got his iPhone 12 Pro Max replaced without any luck. He is now attempting to change carrier to see if it makes any difference. You can read his extended feedback here.
Are you also experiencing the iPhone 12 No Service problem? Is your new iPhone experiencing sudden drops in signal bars? Are ongoing calls dropped? Please let us know using the comments section available below. Do mention your device model, iOS version and carrier and help us determine how common this problem is!
Related: 5G on iPhone 12 not available in Dual SIM mode?
I have the same problem on an iphone8 which was recently replaced, having ios 13 pre-installed. Verizon, hops towers (apparently) between 4 bars LTE to 2bars, to 3G to no service, and bounces back over time, all while sitting in the same place. I can’t prevent, this, only flip airplane mode when it craps out. EXASPERATING. If ios 14 shows the same problem, as you say, the problem has not been addressed, and what hope is there for a solid fix?
Guglielmo, thanks for confirming the problem. Yes, we can imagine how frustrating this is because it can lead to missing important calls. Yes, the issue has been reported for the latest iOS 14.1 software version too.
Have you tried to check another smartphone (non-iPhone) one the same carrier in the exact same location to see if it acts the same way? You might be extremely unlucky and be placed at the border between two cell towers, and depending on the weather or congestion, the device is automatically switching between the two of them an losing signal. I don’t want to excuse Apple in any way, but this might also be a carrier coverage problem. A fix could be available if they could allow you to lock the signal on the current tower, but you’l have to manually reset the setting every time when you leave your home or work and that can be a painstaking procedure.
Are you experiencing the iPhone No service problem only in one location? Or you’ve noticed in other places too?
Same problem here! I’m running iOS 14.1 & have tried all the above yesterday. I noticed that I had 2 incoming calls that went straight to voicemail & the phone never rang. Right now as I type this I have 3 bars but it can change quickly. I really want to return it to Sprint but I already returned my old iPhone. And just as I said, those 3 bars just dropped to 1 before even submitting this. My husband also has the same carrier & has way better signal than I do
Tracey, thanks for your feedback. Are the above mentioned bars displayed for 5G or LTE?
I have been having this problem consistently since i got my new iPhone. Switched from a XS Max to a 12 pro. Didn’t move locations or change carriers and I use the new sim that came with the phone. The problem is definitely on Apple’s side.
Clint, thanks for confirming. Your feedback really helps. Let’s hope this can be fixed with a software update.
I have a shiny $1000K brick… About to return the phone, go back to my 10 and wait to see if/how/when this is fixed.
Edit: Reddit thread already linked in the article under ‘similar reports’.
Similar iPhone 12 carrier connectivity issues reported on MacRumors: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/iphone-12-pro-connectivity-issues.2263167/
Jeremy, thanks for your feedback. Is it really that bad? Does it happen that often? Fingers crossed for a fix sooner rather than later!
Just got my iPhone 12 pro and it’s been dropping calls and no service on and off all day for 5 days since the day I purchased the device. I’m thinking it has to be a software issue that needs to be updated cause there is no way that so many of us have broken iPhone 12 5g’s.
I’ve powered down, powered back up. Hard restart. Restored the device on my computer and even had the SIM card replaced to another 5g and still behaving the same. I’ve done everything that needs to be done to rectify the issue to no avail. Apple has really taken a turn that has really disappointed me. I’ve never experienced this before.
Jr, thanks for reporting. Does this problem still happen if you disable 5G from Settings and force the LTE mode only? I’m trying to see if the No Service problem is caused strictly by 5G.
I tried switching to LTE and the problem still happened for me. I do notice that the Service drops in the same locations each time so it makes sense that it might be switching carrier towers. I lose service at least 5-10 times a day. I got the 12 the day it came out. I keep checking for updates hoping something will fix it! It’s super annoying.
Heather, thanks for your feedback and letting us know that the No Service bug occurs over LTE too. I can imagine how annoying this is. If you have time you can check the iOS 14.2 Public Beta and see if it brings any improvements://www.iphonetricks.org/how-to-update-iphone-to-ios-14-2-beta/
Or, just wait a bit more until it’s released to the general public.
Both my wife and I have iphone 12s 128GB on Verizion only difference is the color. My phone has had no issues, hers keeps dropping single, one minute it works, one it doesn’t. Someitmes it rings, sometimes it doesn’t. Mine has been fine no issues. VZW and they had me reset network settings and set up an APT at the local store to further troubleshoot. Very annoying.
Matt, thanks for reporting. That’s interesting. Can you please let us know if you’re using old SIM cards on both iPhone 12 models, or you got new SIMs from Verizon when you got the new devices?
I activated my new iPhone 12 pro on Tuesday. Had major issues getting it activated , especially with a pop up that said iMessage wasn’t working. Once the phone finally worked, I noticed that my notifications were wonky. I wasn’t getting any for text, messenger, calls, or voicemails. When I’d text someone I’d get a pop down bar with their message every time they replied in the conversation. It was annoying and my settings weren’t set to do that. Then today I received a NO SJM DETECTED and had no service. I called Verizon and she got it working. 3 hours later I get the SIM notice and once again my phone was a brick. I just called tech support and she said she’s taken over 25 calls today alone from people in my exact situation. She actually told me to return the phone and wait until they fix this problem because the “fix” only works temporarily. I have to call again tomorrow to have it escalated for the patch. But I’m seriously thinking about returning it.
Becka, thanks for clarifying this for us. Yes, this really sounds like a serious and widespread problem. Let’s hope they can fix it via a software update. Keep us updated.
I found this post because I was wondering if others with the new iPhone were having the same issues. I have the new iPhone 12, 128 GB on Verizon. We don’t have 5G in my small city yet.
I’ve found at least a few times that my phone suddenly has no service in areas I’m absolutely sure have had no issues in the past. A couple times, turning Airplane mode on and then off has worked, but not every time. And who wants to have to keep doing that??
I’m very hopeful this gets a software fix or (worst case) a warranty fix.
Phaelon, thanks for sharing your case. We will update this article as soon as an official fix becomes available.
Just got my iphone 12, a few days ago, the new iphone has really poor signal. I have two phone numbers in my phone, both of them not work well. The new phone keep losing signal a few times a day. Apple customer service suggested me to contact carrier, Optus do made some network setting on their side, but still have poor signals, even it shows 4G on the top, still cannot access internet. I’ll go Apple store tomorrow, hope one of their genius guys can help me with this.
Ke, thanks for sharing your feedback. Please let us know what Apple’s Genius staff tells you so that we can inform others. Good luck!
This is not a rumor, it’s facts. My new iPhone 12 has lost service more than 5 times in less than a week and I have to turn the phone off then back on because even when you move around it doesn’t regain the service! Fix it or I will complain until I get a refund apple! Your iPhone 12 service sucks! Wish I kept the iPhone X
Mike, thanks for your confirmation. Yes, we already have a lot of similar reports and have forwarded this problem to Apple. Hopefully a software update fix will be possible.
Just wanted to let you know that I am having the same issue with my iPhone 12 even went and got a new SIM card and it is still the same I have to keep switching to airplane mode never had this issue with my iPhone 11 it worked perfectly I hope they have a fix soon !!!!
Geoff, thanks for confirming. Have you asked your carrier when you got the new SIM what’s their take on this problem?
Yes I talked to my carrier and they know there is an issue they can see my dropped signal !!! I also went to the apple store and they looked at me like I was stupid told me to switch carriers !!!! Said they could not do anything not even exchanging my phone because they don’t know if it’s hardware or software issues so it was a waste of time and gas money !!! I hope they resolve this soon need my phone for work !!!
Geoff, thanks for sharing this with us. That sounds frustrating. Yes, Apple support seems to have different approaches to this situation, depending on your country or region. Most of the times it seems that they’re open in offering a replacement unit. However, as time goes on and they see more and more devices returning they might shift this approach. We’re still eagerly waiting for Apple to issue an official reaction regarding this situation.
brand new blue iphone 12 pro stopped receiving and sending calls after three days. went to verizon store and rep said it’s an Apple hardware issue that it is aware of. Told I Need to send my phone back. Problem is that’s it’s my business phone, so now wtf? Also the same phone is on backorder as explained by Apple so I was told it could be 2 weeks! Never experienced such lunacy from Apple. Look what I get for the one time I want the latest and greatest.
Sean, thanks for reporting. Well if this is a confirmed hardware problem and not something that can be fixed with a software update, this is a serious bloomer from Apple’s side.
Important: From what we notice most reports about the iPhone 12 No Service issues are coming from the U.S. If you’re outside of the USA and are experiencing the same issue please mention this in your comment.
Could the hardware issue be related to the 5G UW antenna patch that’s only available for US sold iPhone 12 models?
Hey there, I’m a netizen from mainland China. I also experiencing the totally same thing here. Since Chinese version of 12 is a double card, means you can insert two physical cards. And I experienced no service in recent days, the airplane mode can’t solve the problem but the only way I find useful temporarily is to turn the phone off then back on.
And I found tons of complaints about this issue in Chinese social media and apple’s support communities… here is link to that, check it out(in Chinese tho)https://discussionschinese.apple.com/thread/251951720
hope apple can solve it asap, it’s really annoying
Yingping, thanks for your valuable feedback from China. Have you managed to update to iOS 14.2, it was released yesterday: https://www.iphonetricks.org/ios-14-2-software-update-10-features-15-fixes/
Does it help?
Having the same issue.
iPhone 12 128gb
iOS 14.1
Verizon
We don’t have 5G in our area. My phone was set up with the Apple phone to phone setup transfer. Years ago an Apple employee told me to NEVER setup a new phone using a backup from iTunes. The new phone takes on bad habits and old settings from the older phone. Is the iTunes backup the same as the phone to phone transfer? Could this be the issue?
Mark, thanks for your inquiry. Yes, phone to phone transfer is the way to go nowadays. I don’t think that the way you setup your new iPhone will have an impact on this. We’re definitely waiting for an official statement from Apple regarding this issue. The plot thickens and some other readers have reported that they’ve been informed by the Verizon staff that this is might be a hardware problem. We will keep you updated as soon as new info is available.
I’m using a 12 Pro as dual SIM. the physical sim is working only from time to time ….
I think I have to shift the phone horrible…
Lennart, thanks for your feedback. What about the eSIM (2nd SIM) is that one working OK?
The E sim is working fine. Even 5G no issue. Only Physical. I tested the SiM card in an iPhone X and an Huawei no issues. Apple already offered me to switch the phone. But its a long lead time.
Lennart, thanks for the clarification. So, they’re replacing phones for this? No word about a potential software fix? Did you update to iOS 14.2? Any fix?
https://www.iphonetricks.org/ios-14-2-software-update-10-features-15-fixes/
This moment Ii still keeping the Phone. I want to wait a few days for a software fix. As lead time is so long and I use it for work. I updated to 14.2 but still same problem.
Lennart, thanks for the info. Keep in touch. We’ll also update this article in case something new comes up.
Lennart, go with Samsung Galaxy s20 Plus… you won’t regret.
Mike, have you tested both devices? iPhone 12 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S20. Can yo argument your pick? A pros and cons list? Would appreciate your detailed feedback.
I’ve really had nothing but issues with the 12 Pro – Like others, I get signal loss where it shows zero bars – My wife’s 12 Pro will show 5 bars Verizon LTE and I have none – I also am not receiving all of my messages in iMessage in group chat – In addition, my phone will sometimes go straight to voicemail and not ring at all. I spoke with Apple and they had no clue. My iPhone X was rock solid – According to Apple I have 30 days to return the phone, not the customary 14 – I have an appointment at the Apple store on Thursday where I plan on returning the phone – It’s just been too unreliable – Upset, but don’t really have any other options – I will say that turning Data Roaming off seems to help with the no signal issue.
Jeremy, thanks for your in-depth feedback. This is a very strange and annoying situation. Your wife’s working phone clearly shows that there is a hardware problem with your device. As you can notice in this topic, you’re not the only one affected by this problem. This makes us think that there was a batch of devices shipped with manufacturing problems. This shouldn’t be a design problem, because all devices should be plagued with the No Service bug and not just a part. My best guess is that an internal hardware component is faulty. Apple support might offer you a replacement unit. If you decide to take it ask for a new receipt so that you can get 30-days extra return time in case the replacement unit is also plagued with the same issue.
P.S.: Thanks for the ‘Data Roaming’ tip. We’ve updated it in the article. Let’s see if others confirm any improvement.
I am experiencing a very similar issue. I switched from Comcast Xfinity on an iPhone XR to AT&T with an iPhone 12 Pro and since the day I activated service on 10/31, my calls are dropping regularly or people keep telling me they cannot hear me. I never had any call or connectivity issues on the iPhone XR or with Comcast Xfinity (they use Verizon towers).
I have toggled calls between 5G Auto and LTE in the Cellular Data Options, Voice & Data and it is still having issues. I am sitting in my home office where I have been working for 8 months with no issues from iPhone XR. Since switching to AT&T with iPhone 12 Pro, I now have 1-2 bars of service on 5G and 2-3 bars of service on LTE, yet people still cannot hear me and my calls break up every day. I have to constantly move away from my desk and near a window or move to a different room for service. This hasn’t ever happened before this phone.
I have a ticket in to AT&T after talking to a customer service rep. Needless to say I am upset with this and this must be rectified by the carriers and Apple ASAP.
Justin, thanks for your detailed report. We know that this is frustrating and a serious problem. The ‘good’ thing is that you’re not the only one experiencing this, which forces both carriers and Apple to prioritize a fix. Please keep us updated about how your AT&T ticket works out.
I am using the iPhone 12 pro here in Pakistan with LTE only and signal disappears and I have to reboot to fix it often. What a bummer!!!
Shahid, thanks for confirming that the iPhone 12 No Service problem is also occurring outside of the United States. We still hope that this can be fixed with a software update. Else, things will be complicated for users living outside of the U.S, especially where Apple Stores aren’t easy to find.
Same issue in Thailand. I think it’s a software problem from Apple. I will try to test on 14.3 beta.
MarkJ, thanks for confirming. Do let us know if this is fixed in iOS 14.3 Beta.
I am also having the same issues. My husband has an iPhone 11 and is not having any problems. The no service is happening multiple times a day!
Cathy, thanks for confirming. This is now a common issue, because we received lots of similar reports. I’m sure that Apple is aware of it and working on a fix. If it’s a software related problem the iPhone 12 no service will be solved with an update. If it’s hardware an iPhone 12 service program should become available to replace the faulty units.
I am also having the problem with no service multiple times a day. I have an iphone XR that does not have any issues when both phones are in the same room. First Apple support told me to set the phone to 5G on since I was getting lots of call failures that all showed up on LTE according to diagnostics. After setting roaming to 5G on, I got several dropped calls, but not call failures. Now I am only getting the no service multiple times a day. Apple support ran diagnostics again and said there is no problem and I should contact Verizon. I have not yet been able to contact Verizon since I have a business account, I can only find support M-F. It seems that the iphone 12 cannot handle LTE and since 5G is not always available, this seems to be a big problem.
Carol, thank you for sharing your situation. This sounds frustrating. I guess, that your best option is to switch back to LTE. I imagine the dropped calls are better than no calls at all. Do get back to us and let us know what Verzion support will tell you about this situation. Fingers crossed for a quick positive outcome.
Dropping ongoing calls in my home frequently with new iPhone 12 Pro Max purchased two days ago, 14.2, and 256 GB. Previously used iPhone 11 and never experienced dropped ongoing calls in my home.
David, thanks for confirming this. Let’s hope fix will be soon available.
iPhone 12 Pro, 256 GB
Worse coverage, calls going in and out, dropped calls with no warning.
Dropped calls are even worse when turning off 5G
New SIM card did not fix
Network settings reset didn’t fix
Does this have to do with the 12’s not having 3G? I feel in some of these areas it would switch to 3G and now it just goes no signal instead.
Danielle, the iPhone 12 is capable of connecting to 3G networks. In fact, it should automatically switch for it when no better signal is availble. However, your carrier has to allow it. Some carriers, like Verizon have started to shutdown their old CDMA 3G networks.
Hello. I’m from Ukraine. A similar problem, 10 times a day LTE signal disappears. iPhone 12 pro
Andrew, thanks for confirming that this iPhone 12 no service problem also occurs in Eastern Europe. Stay tuned for any updates regarding this subject.
Unfortunately, beta ios 14.3 did not fix the problem. I will return the phone ((
Andrew, thanks for confirming this. Please get back to us and let us know if you have a explanation from Apple when you return the device.
This is happening to me at my house constantly which is obviously terrible. I can’t even take work calls on my phone as they usually won’t even come in or drop when they do. And I even have Verizon wifi calling enabled and it doesn’t help in any way. Upgraded to the iphone 12 pro from the iphone X and never had an issue with call service at home on the X. Tried all the tricks and some seem to help temporarily but it ends up dropping or not receiving calls again shortly after. Same carrier with new sim card for phone that was already installed. In the eastern U.S.
Raj, thanks for your feedback. Stay tuned. We will update this article as soon as a fix becomes available. If anything changes at your end, don’t hesitate to get back and let us know. Fingers crossed that this will be solved soon!
I was very excited to get the iPhone 12 pro max, got it the day it came out. It drops calls several times a day when I am out and about, seems to be in the same couple areas where it is probably switching towers. It goes completely to no service. Did not have that issue with my iPhone XS Max. Also have issue with how my contacts loaded from iCloud. Some show names, some don’t or the name doesn’t come across with the call or text. Very frustrating….hope a fix comes soon.
Brenda, thanks for your feedback. The iCloud syncing problem is something new. We’re looking into it.
my 12 pro has been dropping calls since day 1 and I have tried all of the “fixes” listed including taking the phone to Verizon who replaced the SIIM card and said they have no clue about this issue.. I find that hard to believe as I keep seeing all of these posts online with people having the same issue.. I have an appointment on Monday for the Apple Store and I will see if they will replace my phone… i hope that fixes the issues..
Darrin, thanks for sharing your feedback. Please get back to us on Monday and let us know if you managed to solve. I’m also curious if you get a replacement unit and if that unit will do better under the same circumstances.
Same problem here (Sprint/T-Mobile, iPhone 12 Pro Max). My son who now has my iPhone XS Max will report 3 to 4 bars of LTE while I have either 1x/3G or NO service at all.
Switching Airplane mode on/off doesn’t resolve. Sometimes, a reboot does fix but wondering what the issue is.
New blue iPhone Pro Max 12. Randomly lose service. Has not dropped a call yet. Figured out the airplane mode fix on my own and works every time. I did update to the newest software and I don’t think it has happened since I have done that.
Chris, thanks for this update. Do get back to us if it happens again while running iOS 14.2.1.
I’ve had my Red iPhone since nov 13. Extremely unhappy with the number of dropped calls. Using Verizon. Same service I used with the iPhone 7 I traded in. iPhone 7 only occasionally dropped calls. I’m ready to return the iPhone 12.
Kim, thanks for confirming this. We understand your frustration. We’ll update this article as soon as a fix becomes available.
Well folks here is another unhappy iPhone 12 Pro Max user…….
Problems with new Verizon iPhone 12 Pro Max displaying “No Service” when in a domestic roaming area.
I live in SW Washington state in an area where I rely on roaming and a connection to a cellular service area provisioned by US Cellular.
I am upgrading from an iPhone 8 Plus.
This phone worked well both on Verizon LTE network while traveling and roaming (voice) only no data) when back in my home area here in zip code area 98649.
When in my house due to poor signal strength I had to rely on WI-FI calling and all was fine.
When out and about I could least make voice calls if needed vis US Cellulars network.
This has been true with all of the iPhones I have owned while living here. iPhone 4, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6sPlus, and my iPhone 8 Plus prior to the purchase my iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Well after getting this new iPhone sold directly form Apple to me (With no Sim provided)
I setup the new iPhone here at home via WiFi as a new device and did not move anything over on to it.
I setup all my apps & allowed all my information / Contacts , Notes & Calendar, etc. to populated to the phone via WiFi prior to activating it on cellular service.
I took a gamble and used my old SIM card from the iPhone 8 Plus (shame on me)
I drove 10 miles into CastleRock Wa. so I would have LTE coverage and put my sim in and activated my phone.
All seemed well phone fired up got LTE and I tested by calling my voice mail.
I immediately received a text message from Verizon saying:
Verizon Msg: We noticed you switched the SIM card in your 5G device. To get access to the full benefits of 5G, please use the pre-installed 5G SIM card that came with your device. If you’re unable to locate the original 5G SIM card or did not receive one, visit verizon.com/support/contact-us to contact us for help in completing your activation.
Well I headed back to my home and went from good LTE to no signal……by the time I got to my home.
So Monday November 23 I drove down to Vancouver Wa. (40 Mile drive oneway) to the Verizon store and installed the new sim.
While leaving there I had great 5G service and along the way back home up the I5 freeway LTE was also very good .
As I got off the main freeway and headed towards my home as I got to the area where I normally switch from LTE to Extended ( Roaming) I get no bars…and the phone will no longer function on a cell network.
Once home wi-if calling kicks in and all is good again.
As long as I stay in the house or in my shop.
I contacted Verizon 4 times on the 23rd and with the (help?) from the tech’s we went over all settings.
Reseting network settings, airplane mode on and off, cell on and you name we tried it.
We made sure there were no carrier updates that were listed and needed installed
And I also made sure I was on the most current IOS available 14.2.1.
I like a lot of you are at my wits end on this.
I just wanted to share this information with you and to see if any one has happened upon a resolution.
Dennis, thanks for the in-depth description about the poor signal issue on your iPhone 12 Pro Max. I hope that you will manage to fix this frustrating situation. To get back to us if you do. Unfortunately, we don’t have any new fix yet, but we will update the article as soon as we or anyone else will find anything new.
Hey everyone,
I just thought I would follow up on my experience in getting this “No Service” here at my home resolved.
Remember I’m trying to Roam on a US Cellular provisioned network “where I live” while having a Verizon provisioned iPhone.
I had posted this same original posting on the Verizon community forum.
A day later I received a private email from a Verizon rep wanting to continue to help me.
WOW what a shock!
Well, via their private messaging system used on their forum five different tech reps during the course of these 2 days worked with me.
We changed multiple settings rebooted the iPhone you name it we tried it, I even drove 10 miles into town to a good Verizon LTE signal and then drove back home to see if any of the changes help.
Bottomline No !
They then went ahead and sent me a new iPhone 12 Pro Max via 2 day delivery we set it up here at home, I then had to drive 10 miles back into town to get on an Verizon LTE to finalize activation.
I then stopped by an area in town that had an Xfinity hot spot put the phone in airplane mode jumped on the hotspot made a couple of calls and then turned back on the cell antenna’s and started to head back to my home.
From this area where I am at back to my home is 10 miles about fives miles out my old iPhone 8 Plus would make the switch to Extended and we would carry on, well this iPhone 12 Pro Max acted just like my iPhone and went into no service mode.
It stayed that way until I got home and then went into Wi-Fi Calling.
So after all this effort (Thank you Verizon for sending a new iPhone 12 Pro Max) I contacted the Verizon techs again (Via private message) and provided my feed back.
At this point there appears to be no other option that Verizon could or would offer.
It would have been nice to of least known that some where through all this effort, Verizon would have worked this up to one of the technical engineering groups to better identify if it was a Verizon, Apple or US Cellular problem.
As a result of all this effort I then returned the iPhone 12 Pro Max that Verizon sent me and went back to my original phone.
So in closing…. No Resolution.
So currently it appears my only resolution will be to go into town and look into switching carriers to US Cellular.
Going to their web site and using my IMEI number they say the iPhone 12 Pro Max will work fine out here with 4g LTE.
By the way the US Cellular’s Cell Tower is only 1.5 miles from my property.
I will try and visit their store this weekend and see if they have any info on this problem they would be willing to share.
Still not sure if want to switch, they are offering a comparable plan with what we have (Actually it’s even a little better) and no roaming fees.
It’s that or wait it out and hopefully Verizon, Apple or US Cellular come up with a resolution.
I hope this information is helpful,
Regards,
Dennis
Dennis, I’m happy that you got back to us and shared more valuable insights regarding this iPhone 12 no servivce / poor signal problem. In the same time, I am said to hear that after going through all these efforts you are still not able to fix it. Hopefully, Apple will find a solution and issue a software update that will help users that struggle with cellular coverage on brand new iPhones.
Keep us posted if you go for a carrier change and try US cellular. I am curious to find out if anything changes. We will also update the article as soon as a fix is available.
same problem iphone 12 pro. Helped setting / mobile data / network selection and select manually. The signal works :-)
PetrP, thanks for sharing this tip. Can you please confirm get back to us and let us know if this is permanent or the problem re-occurs later on?
iPhone 12 pro will not search once it looses service. Nothing works long term to fix. All updates to 14.2.1 Today, had two other same carrier iPhones were at my residence and instead of the usual 2-4 times a day, i counted 32 total times in a 4 hour period that my 12 pro lost signal and would not search. Wife has a 12 pro max and has had no issues. This is unacceptable on apple and the carriers.
Chris, thanks for sharing this. Yes, the fact that two new iPhone models from the 12-lineup act differently using the same carrier in the same location is puzzling. However, this too has been reported before. It’s either a bad batch of iPhones that shipped with faulty cellular antenna or the bug is triggered only in specific situations. Can you notice any differences between settings or the way your wife uses the iPhone compared to yours?
Patricia, as we speak my wife 12 pro max has now started loosing service and only toggling airplane will fix. Personal opinion, our carrier is dismantling the 3G network so we are reliant solely on LTE as 5G is nowhere close right now. With 3G being the primary signal for so long, our carrier not compensating for this transition with added stress to the LTE network could be a issue, but it def seems like a Apple software/hardware problems. Weird part: I can go to work, have service all day and never lose service, so yeah that points to network strength/phone strength but the family over yesterday all described their phones didn’t have good service either, and we are all on the same carrier… but that doesn’t explain why the phone will not search for service after it drops. Now, I can go into a tin roofed building next to my home, walk in with service and it will loose it, but when i re emerge from the building, it actively searches for signal.. that is suspect of software to me.. just an opinion, Apple has a problem and its going to cost them if they don’t figure this out fast
Chris, thanks for getting back to us. Yes, 3G networks being shut down could be one of the factors, but it can’t be the only one. As you say, Apple needs to fix this software-wise. I can’t event imagine how big the consequences the issue will be, if the poor signal problem is caused by an iPhone 12 design flaw.
I really don’t think it’s an Apple issue or an Android issue. It’s the carrier’s issue. I just googled Samsung Galaxy Note 20 signal issues and I see that some people were also having issues with signal. In my opinion I think it’s more of a carrier issue than the phone. They are rolling out 5G but for some reason they can keep up with the pace. Not everyplace has 5G. It’s a new technology and it seems it’s affecting everyone on every carrier.
Cindy, thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. Your arguments make perfect sense up to a point… how do you explain that two different iPhone models 11 Pro and 12 Pro are getting different coverage while on the same carrier, placed in the same location? One has signal while the other displays ‘No Service’ several times a day.
Hi Patricia. My pleasure. I wish I knew that answer but I myself am still looking into this issue. I also found on the web that when the 11 was launched there were some who had signal problems. It just might be an Apple issue but further investigation needs to be done. I myself just recently ordered the 256gb Gold 12 pro max on the Verizon network. I’m worried too and hoping that I don’t have that issue.
Cindy, do let us know if you discover something new. Fingers crossed!
In the meantime, Dennis updated us on his iPhone 12 No Service troubleshooting venture. You might wanna check out his story here.
My iPhone 12 has lost signal 5 times in 4 days and the signal bar bounces around like a mexican jumping bean on steroids while the phone is stationary. I had the sim card replaced by Verizon but it didn’t help. Sad part is that the Verizon techs were totally unaware of these issues. I had to show them the posts. I have discovered though that my phone seems to so ok while connected to my Verizon jet pack while I am at home. It has been operating on the jet pack signal for almost 24 hours without a loss. It seems the signal problem occurs only when the phone is not connected to an external wifi.
Holli, thanks for sharing this. The Verizon jetpack workaround sounds like a good idea. Please get back to us and let us know if this fix continues to work in the long term. We will add your tip to the main content of the article.
Hi Patricia, I am submitting a followup from my Dec 4th post. I kept my iihone 12 connected to my Verizon jet pack until mid morning on Dec 5th and had no loss of signal issues. I then disconnected the jet pack and ran my errands. I live in a rural area 15 miles away from the nearest city. I spent about 3 hours running errands and had no signal loss. When I returned home I decided to not use the jet pack and see what happened. The signal strength was steady and I have not had a problem since. I am not sure if the problem is related to the phone, the carriers, or Apple at this point. The carriers are all so eager to push their 5G service but they neglected to ensure that everyone has that service available to them. Likewise Apple is so intent on pushing out new phones that they seem to have forgotten to see if they really work in all areas. In any case I am keeping my fingers crossed and knocking on wood that my phone will continue to keep its signal.
Holli, thanks for reporting back. I’m happy for the good news. I do agree with your point of view. Let’s hope that these 5G glitches will be adjusted in the near future. Fingers crossed that your device maintains a steady connection!
I thought it was just both my locations: work & home. When I tried Oneplus 8 and Google Pixel 4a 5g, I didn’t have any reception issue. I almost wanna return it because it’s so disappointing to have such a expensive phone and not being able to use it for its main purpose. My calls are dropped or I loose signal. I’m even to the point where I don’t care so much for the data. I just wanna be able to talk and communicate with family. That’s all. FYI: disabled 5g in hopes to improve signal but remained the same. On Verizon network.
Kristina, thanks for sharing. iOS 14.3 should be out soon, perhaps even today. Let’s hope it fixes most of these problems.
Purchased a new 12 last month. biggest mistake ever. I typically am not an early adopter with Apple for this very reason. I have been on chat (can’t call cause of dropping calls) for over a week between Apple and Verizon. From inside my home I am getting dropped calls, calls not sounding just as all above mentioned. Last night Apple support said Verizon needs to provision my device from their network. I mentioned that to the agent and they typed back Apple is ignoring the problem and this is a typical issue. Verizon sent me a new SIM card. Who knows if this will work. I NEVER had this issue with my 6. I am homebound and NEED to have a reliable phone for emergencies. I also ordered a booster from XFinity as a back up just in case that’s an issue.
I have been on chat now for a month with the same issue.
Holli mentioned that she was able to improve this by using Verizon jetpack. Is this an option for you?
I am waiting for the new SIM card from Verizon and the xfinity boost plug (which could be as effective as the jetpack). When I last chatted w Verizon they were happy to send the SIM card and said that was pretty much all they could offer at this point. I read the 14.3 update and did not read any fixes to dropped calls. If the 2 fixes do not correct the issue I need to get a new phone.
Mary, thanks for getting back to us. I sure hope that you will manage to fix this with the xfinity boost plug and won’t have to switch for a new phone. Do let us know the outcome. Fingers crossed!
UPDATE – 1/5/21. Well, I replaced the SIM card; installed the Xfinity Boost and spent countless hours on the phone with Verizon. Today – my call to my doctor dropped 11 times. The office was kind to keep calling me back!
My next step is to get back with apple care and ask them to replace the phone. I don’t think I have any other recourse.
Thoughts?
Mary, thanks for the update. Are you using your iPhone with a case or naked? Are you noticing any difference in dropped calls for either of the two scenarios?
Patricia
I use an Otter case – I can’t ‘hold’ on to the phone if I don’t – my hands have neuropathy. The case does not interfere with the wifi – only the mag charging. I also noticed my bars are at 1 or 2 (which is a Verizon issue). I think the low bars may be an issue with so many working from home these days – there is a high demand on the bandwidth across the nation now. I don’t have any other solutions than to ask for a new phone. After reading all the notes here – this is an across the board issue that has been going on since iPhone 12 was released.
Mary, indeed lots of iPhone 12 users are affected this issue. We’re trying to find workarounds and was curious if the case aggravates it or not. Yes, asking for a replacement is the natural thing in your situation. Keep us updated please. I’m curious if the new device will make a difference. Fingers crossed!
Same issue in Denmark!.
No problems at all with my 11 pro, but with my brand new 12 pro it seems like im back to iPhone 4. I drive the same way to work every day but with my 12 pro, Spotify and other apps says “no signal” or “bad connection”… Well…What phone can you get FOR 1000 US DOLLAR?!!
Thanks for sharing this Flemming. At least this is worldwide and if it’s that spreadout Apple will have to either fix it with a software update or announce a service program and fix any hardware problems for free. Of course, this doesn’t compensate for weeks or months of not being able to properly use the smartphone!
What a joke, 2k iPhone 12 and now I pretty much can’t even use it at my new home due to service issues and drop outs. Previously my reception here was perfect on iPhone X.
My partner also has the new iPhone 12 and hers is fine!
Pathetic for this much money and a complete screw around!
Mitch, I totally understand how frustrating this is. You can try out iOS 14.3 RC version and see if it fixes or partially improves the iPhone 12 poor cellular coverage problem: https://www.iphonetricks.org/ios-14-3-gm-version-doesnt-fix-important-bugs/
This has been around since October and they still haven’t fixed it?
I have to imagine if they have not patched it by then, it is a hardware issue they cannot repair. This thing might be going back.
Mike, thanks for your feedback. So, you’re still encountering carrier signal problems in iOS 14.3?
So, help me to understand… I spent $1100 on an iPhone 12 Pro Max and in order for it to work right, I have to reboot it daily, sometimes several times a day? This piece of overrated junk is getting returned and I’m getting a Galaxy S20 Ultra instead.
Paul, your frustration is fully justified. Unfortunately, we don’t have another workaround for you at this moment.
I just bought an iPhone 12 on 12/12/2020. This phone is my first smartphone, replacing an old flip phone. So far I’ve had more problems with this phone in six days than I had in over six years of my last flip phone. For no reason the phone drops service and the only fix is to power down and restart. I’ve read all the previous posts and tried the recommended fixes but the only one that works is a restart. My wife bought the same phone two days prior to mine and doesn’t have these issues. What recourse do I have?
Linden, thanks for reporting. That’s the biggest mystery of the iPhone 12 No Service issue. Identical iPhone models owned by two family members, using the same carrier. One works fine the other drops signal unexpectedly. It seems that’s this is a real puzzle for Apple too. Because they haven’t managed to find a fix yet and it’s been a few months already.
Took my phone back to Best Buy and they replaced the SIM card and worked with Verizon resetting all the parameters. I was told I wouldn’t have any more problems but my service was lost before I even made it home. Lost service several more times that evening. Looks like I will be making another trip back to Best Buy again today.
That’s insane. Thanks for getting back to us. Fingers crossed for third time lucky!
Yes I have iPhone 12 with the latest software and my phones service is horrible. My husband has the iPhone 10 with the latest software and his is now has terrible service. All are on Verizon. He had a work phone Samsung Galaxy that is also on Verizon that has way better with service.
Sarah, when did he use the Samsung Galaxy the last time? Was it recent? Or a couple of months ago? My point is that Verizon has started to dismantle 3G networks and if you’re signal was relying on it you might be having problems when the new devices are forced to connect to 4G. This is one of the problem many new iPhone 12 users are facing.
Please what’s going on i got iphone12 3 days ago and the service is really horrible, I kept it in LTE but it keeps going back to 3G on its own and the service is terrible it’s not even going at all. I sincerely don’t understand what’s happening and I’m based in Nigeria
Omowunmi, your iPhone is experiencing cellular coverage issues. Have you updated the software to iOS 14.3?
Got my new iPhone 12 pros for me and my husband. I am going crazy over here. My phone drops calls 5 times before I have to excuse myself from the call because I’m so frustrated and embarrassed. I’ve waited on line for 20 minutes and before I can explain the problem the call drops and I have to call back. I have been next in line for a call back since before Christmas. No one has answered. I went to Verizon and was helped and I’m expecting a call back tomorrow. The call to the verizon store dropped 5 times and then no signal bars were showing. What in the world am i supposed to do? I can’t afford to be without a phone.
Carolyn, this is terrible. It’s a known problem for sure as we have numerous similar cases reported over here. Have you tried to disable 5G on the device? And force an LTE connection instead to see if this makes any difference? You can use Wi-Fi calling when you’re at home or at the office to make things better. Do let us know what Verizon staff had to say about it!
Hi there.. did your problem start recently? Today, I started experiencing missed calls (straight to voicemail) and tonite, I have no cellular service. I have a 12 Pro and my carrier is Verizon. Like you I depend on my phone especially with working from home. Not sure if this is an Apple problem or Verizon problem.
Thanks for this information. My problem started tonite with my 12 Pro 128 GB iPhone. I’ve had my device for about 6 weeks and had no real issues until today. First, my calls were going straight to voicemail. Then in the evening, I lost cellular service. I have no bars and my iPhone indicates that I have no network from Verizon. I tried rebooting, toggling the airplane mode button, software is updated to 14.3. I adjusted the cellular settings and I have no luck. I have an active iMessage and my WiFi if fine. From reading the article it appears to be an Apple issue? Or is it the carrier Verizon? Thanks!
Apple customer service in France told me to try thise settings :
Allow more data on 5G
Disabling data roaming
For me it worked. It’s been 2 days since I didn’t experience any signal dropping. Knock on wood.
I’ve noticed something : When before I used to get from 5G a no signal service now I’m getting from 5G a 3G service for very long minutes in the area where I used to lose the signal …
Jan, can you please mention that you live in France and use SIM card with French number. Or you’re in France with an US SIM card using roaming to get cellular coverage?
Hi Patricia I’m living in France and using a French SIM card
Edit : after 2 days with no dropping it came back today and twice .
So back to square one :-(
I’m now trying to disable 5G on my device.
Has anyone tried to remove its bumper or case ?
Mine is from Belkin
Oh bummer. Disabling 5G could make a difference.
P.S.: Using your iPhone naked is a good idea. It could help isolate the cause of the problem. Let us know if you’re on to something.
iPhone 12 pro max Verizon carrier this phone is terrible with changing cell towers when I leave one town and go to the next I have no service unless I turn my phone off and on again I live close to the border between 2 towers so sometimes I can be at my house and lose all signal it’s terrible they should recall these phones
Jeremy, thanks for your feedback. As a workaround try to use Airplane Mode on and off, to force your iPhone to reconnect to the cell tower instead of shutting it down or restarting it. We still expect this to be fixed with a software update.
P.S.: Are you using your iPhone with a case? Does it make any difference if no case is used?
Patricia it seems there is one common point between France and the USA. The dropping network issues seem to concern almost exclusively one carrier in our both countries. (It’s marginal with the 3 other carriers in France ).
The French carrier has a large 5G coverage but seems to use the DSS technology with the 700 MHz band (this band was used with 4G before ) . May it be the same situation in America with Verizon ?
I’ve read that DSS is a brand new tech maybe it’s not very reliable at the moment ?
Jan, yes the No Service issues seems to be affecting mostly Verizon users. What we found out is the Verizon is disabling its old 3G network in some areas and apparently this is causing some users to lose signal when 5G or LTE isn’t available. Not sure what to say about DSS, I have to research this. Thanks for pointing it out.
Check this out:
https://www.lightreading.com/aiautomation/verizons-dss-comes-up-short-in-new-5g-tests/d/d-id/765808
Maybe this is the explanation ! ;-)
https://www.fiercewireless.com/operators/verizon-cto-we-re-thrilled-dss-performance
You might be on to something. At least now we know that DSS ‘will be improved in the future’. So, there is a chance that the iPhone 12 No Service error will be ultimately fixed. However Verizon’s definition of future, might be not satisfactory for many users.
Hello I don’t get why Apple is not honest with his customers.
I feel they are trying to protect their “big customers (the carriers) boasting about their wide 5G coverage”.
I can’t imagine they don’t know from day 1 that DSS tech because of its lack of reliability at the moment is probably responsible for the dropping network issue.
I’m quite disappointed in their communication on that case
I understand your point of view and it totally makes sense. I don’t want to launch myself in assumptions, but it seems that Apple has grown into a huge company a bit too fast and it currently struggles to match its own greatness.
Iphone 12 pro (ios14.3) here.
I’m currently out of my country (Malaysia), both my e-sim and local physical sim card (central Asia country with 3G only) are not working. Get my friend to try the sim card on Huawei phone & it works okay. Tried the methods above repeatedly for 2 days and it’s still the same. Crappy 1400usd phone
Fauzi, I’m sorry to hear about this. Have you tried to manually select the cellular network?
Go to Settings -> Cellular -> Network Selection and disable Automatic. Wait until available networks appear, it might take up to 2 minutes.
Tap the carrier that you want.
Go back the Settings Home Screen and wait for your iPhone or iPad to connect to the network.
Worst service I’ve ever had on an iPhone! When I’m out working I drive around all day the phone is useless can’t even perform work functions that I’ve been doing every day for the past year on my iPhone XR! It’s insane!
J.P. it truly is! Thanks for sharing! Are you a Verizon customer?
JP and others – I have had various iPhones over the years and NEVER had such a horrible experience as with the iPhone 12! Dropped calls, lost signals, display screen freezing – even when I’ve attempted to reboot the power off screen freezes sometimes. It’s a nightmare.
Linda, thanks for sharing your feedback. Let’s hope that these issues will be addressed soon!
I can say without any doubt that I hate the iPhone 12. I have never has such a hard time with a phone keeping service ever. I’m hoping to be able to return it as it’s very difficult to even work as I use this for my job.
Sorry to hear about this Traci. Have you tried swapping your SIM card with a new one as mentioned in the article?
i cant even use my phone at work. dropped calls, people cant hear me, no signal, no service. apperantly verizon has good coverage in my area must be a phone issue
Luke, this looks like a widespread iPhone 12 problem. Have you tried to contact Verizon and inform them about your problem? Did they acknowledge the issue?