The Brief
Verizon users began reporting their phones are in SOS mode this morning, unable to place calls or send textsVerizon tells FOX they are working to fix “an issue” but did not elaborateFor now, most users should be able to use wi-fi calling if they are on a separate wi-fi network
Verizon users across the country were reporting a widespread outage Monday morning.
DownDetector.com, which monitors online complaints about technology outages, saw a spike in the number of users reporting problems texting and calling starting at about 9:30 a.m. ET.
Many people reported being stuck in SOS mode on their phone, unable to send messages or place calls.
Verizon did not immediately appear to acknowledge any outages on their social media channels, and their network status website was not loading as of 10:30 a.m. A Verizon spokesperson has since confirmed “an issue impacting service for some customers.”
“Our engineers are engaged and we are working quickly to identify and solve the issue,” the spokesperson told FOX Television Stations.
Verizon’s network status website did not appear to be functioning properly Monday morning. (FOX screenshot)
What is SOS mode?
Starting with the iPhone 14, Apple released a feature that enables users to message emergency services via satellite while outside the range of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, or in times of network outages.
The messages are relayed directly via satellite to dispatchers that accept text messages or to relay centers staffed by specialists who can call for help on the user’s behalf, FOX News reports.
SOS mode will automatically turn off once cellular service is restored.
Google has announced a similar feature would be available starting with the Google Pixel 9.
Apple Intelligence: New iPhone and Mac feature
According to Apple, Apple Intelligence understands and creates language and images, takes action across apps, and draws from personal context, simplifying and accelerating everyday tasks.
How can I make calls and send texts?
As long as they are on an independent wi-fi network, like work or school, Apple iPhone users should still be able to send text messages to other iPhone users using iMessage, which is the default setting for Apple-to-Apple messaging. But they may not be able to text Android phone users.
Both iPhone and Android phones are capable of placing wi-fi calls, using a wi-fi connection rather than a cellular network connection, but some devices and phone plans limit such use.
This is a developing story. Stay with FOX for any updates.
The Source
This story includes information from DownDetector.com, a Verizon spokesperson, Verizon’s website, and Verizon’s accounts on X, along with previous reporting by FOX News.
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