How to fix “Cellular Update Failed” error on iPhone

Full text of the error message:

What is “Cellular Update Failed” error

Cellular Update Failed error on an iPhone is a frustrating issue that prevents the device from connecting to cellular networks. This error often displays a message indicating that the cellular update has failed, and it may result in the loss of cellular connectivity, meaning users can’t make calls, send texts, or use mobile data. This typically occurs after a software update or when there’s a temporary glitch within the network settings. It can also result from issues with the SIM card, such as improper placement or faulty hardware. The error is usually tied to the iPhone’s inability to recognize or communicate effectively with the cellular network. Often, users report that rebooting the device or reinserting the SIM card can temporarily alleviate the issue, but it may persist if the root cause isn’t addressed. Occasionally, the error might be due to an iOS bug that requires an official update from Apple to fix. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to attempt to fix this problem before seeking professional assistance. Understanding the underlying cause is essential for finding the right solution.

Download repair tool

Sometimes resolving the errors is out of our control and possibilities. This is where third-party tools are more than welcome to contribute and carry all the difficulties away. If you are facing “Cellular Update Failed” error or similar issues, but fail to benefit from any of the manual steps below, try using Tenorshare ReiBoot — a great recovery tool designed for resolving errors like that. Get to know how one can use it to address the errors and restore or update an iOS device successfully on their website.

Tenor Reiboot Dashboard

Tenor Reiboot Download iOS

Tenor Reiboot Repair Modes

Tenor Reiboot Repair Process

Download iOS Repair Tool

1. Download and install ReiBoot for either Mac or Windows.
2. Once done, open the app and plug your device into the computer.
3. The program should recognize your device and offer a couple of options.
4. Choose Standard if you simply want to update your device, or Deep repair if you want to fully restore it.
5. Then, download the firmware found by the app for your smartphone by clicking Download.
6. Once the process is finished, click Repair now to start resolving the problems.

Standard is meant to search for basic issues and bugs to address them without wiping out your data.
Deep repair will reset your device to factory settings and delete the entire data stored on it.

7. Wait until the app finishes its repair and restores your device. It will take about 15 minutes to end.

Basic Troubleshooting

1. Restart Your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone can resolve temporary glitches that may cause the “Cellular Update Failed” error.

Press and hold the Power button until the slide to power off slider appears.
1. Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone completely.
2. After the device powers down, press and hold the Power button again until you see the Apple logo.

2. Check for a Carrier Settings Update

Outdated carrier settings might be the source of the problem. Update them by following these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to General > About.
3. If there’s an update available, a prompt will appear to update your carrier settings.

Advanced Solutions

3. Reinsert SIM Card

A faulty or misaligned SIM card can hinder your device’s ability to connect to a cellular network. To address this issue:

1. Power off your iPhone.
2. Use a SIM card ejector tool to remove the SIM card.
3. Inspect the SIM card for visible damage or dirt.
4. Gently place the SIM card back into the tray and insert it into the device.
5. Turn your iPhone back on.

4. Reset Network Settings

Resetting the network settings on your iPhone can rectify many connectivity issues:

1. Go to Settings > General > Reset.
2. Select Reset Network Settings.
3. Input your device passcode and confirm the reset.

Final Steps

5. Update iOS

Keeping your iOS updated can solve many underlying issues caused by bugs:

1. Open Settings > General > Software Update.
2. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

6. Contact Apple Support

If none of the above solutions work, there may be a hardware defect or a more complex issue at play. In this case, contacting Apple Support or visiting an authorized service provider is advisable for further assistance.