Before you start
- An iPhone with a SIM or eSIM
- An internet connection
Method 1 Check for a carrier settings update
If no pop-up appears, your carrier settings are already up to date.
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Step 1: Get online
Connect to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
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Step 2: Open About
Go to Settings > General > About.
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Step 3: Wait for the prompt
Stay on this screen for about 15 seconds. If an update is available, a Carrier Settings Update pop-up appears.
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Step 4: Tap Update
Tap Update. It installs in seconds without a restart.
Method 2 Check your carrier settings version
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Step 1: Open About
In Settings > General > About, scroll down to Carrier (or your SIM section on dual-SIM iPhones).
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Step 2: Tap the version
Tap the version number to see more details, such as the carrier version and network.
Other fixes for signal and data problems
- Turn Airplane Mode on and off.
- Update iOS in Settings > General > Software Update; carrier fixes are sometimes included.
- Check Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data (5G Auto, 5G On, LTE).
- Last resort: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings (removes saved Wi-Fi passwords).
Troubleshooting
The update pop-up never appears
That means you’re up to date, or your carrier hasn’t released one. Restart the iPhone and open About again. Insert the SIM firmly if using a physical one.
Still “No Service” after updating
Check for an outage with your carrier, try the SIM in another phone, and reset network settings. If nothing helps, contact your carrier.
Frequently asked questions
How often are carrier settings updated?
Irregularly: a few times a year, often after carrier network changes or new iOS versions.
Do carrier settings updates delete anything?
No. They only change network configuration.
Can I update carrier settings without a SIM?
No. The update is tied to the carrier of the SIM or eSIM you’re using.
Summary
Go to Settings > General > About while online and wait for the Carrier Settings Update prompt. If none appears, you’re current; check your version next to Carrier on the same screen.
