Various users took to social media to call the Verizon Communications network in Chicago, Florida and other US cities down.
Around 1:11 p.m. ET, more than 130,000 users reported problems with Verizon services, according to the outage tracking website Downdetector, which monitors outages by collecting status updates from a variety of sources, including reports submitted by users on its platform.
Downdetector also recorded more than 1,700 reported issues, one each for T-Mobile and AT&T services. The actual number of affected users may differ from the Downdetector data, as the data is based on user-submitted reports.
Why is the phone in SOS mode
If your phone shows SOS, it means that it is not connected to the mobile network. According to Apple: “If you see SOS or ‘SOS only’ in the status bar, your device is not connected to your mobile network, but you can still make emergency calls through other carriers’ networks.”
iPhone 14 and later models are equipped with Satellite SOS, which allows you to call 911 even when there is no cellular coverage, unless you are in an area with no signal. Android phones also allow you to call 911 without service, although this feature is not labeled as an SOS mode.
SOS mode will not make your phone useless
Even if the SOS mode shows that your phone is not connected to the mobile network, it does not mean that it is unusable. Most modern devices can still make calls, send text messages, and access the Internet over Wi-Fi. If you have a Wi-Fi connection, your phone will work normally, although in SOS mode you can only communicate with other devices that are also connected to the same or accessible Wi-Fi network.
Verizon responds after outage
Verizon said it is aware of the issue and that engineers are working to determine the cause and fix it.
“We are aware of an issue that is impacting wireless voice and data services for some customers. Our engineers are engaged and working to quickly identify and resolve the issue. We understand the importance of reliable connectivity and apologize for the inconvenience,” Verizon said on X.
He added: “Verizon technical teams are continuing to address today’s service outages. Our teams remain fully engaged and focused on this issue. We understand the impact this is having on your day and are committed to resolving this issue as quickly as possible.”
Verizon experienced a nationwide wireless outage in late 2024, affecting more than 100,000 users at its peak. The incident drew the attention of the Federal Communications Commission after several services were disrupted and some iPhone users were left in “SOS” mode.
