What is the problem?
Apple has identified an issue that specifically prevents the iPhone 18 Pro Max from accessing AT&T’s network, preventing users from making calls and sending text messages. The smaller iPhone 18 Pro, which was released at the same time, doesn’t have the same problem, nor do the iPhone 18 Pro Max devices from Verizon or T-Mobile.
However, the issue does not appear to affect all AT&T phones. While there have been numerous reports of AT&T subscribers with iPhones not being able to make calls since they got the phone, others only experienced the problem after a few days and others didn’t have it at all. It is not clear what triggers the problem.
Can Apple fix it?
Last week, Apple released iOS 27.0.1 to fix a Face ID bug and other iPhone 18 Pro Max launch day issues. AT&T’s bug was not listed in the release notes, but AT&T urged its subscribers to install the update as a possible fix. The carrier also released its own update for iPhone 18 Pro Max users that will roll out over the next two weeks.
However, we have since learned that those solutions only prevent the problem from occurring again in the future; They do not repair phones that already have the problem. In fact, Apple and AT&T acknowledge that phones with the problem will need to be replaced with a phone that already has iOS 27.0.1 and the AT&T carrier settings update installed.
Is there an official withdrawal?
Apple has only recalled two iPhones in its history, and both offered repairs rather than replacements. In 2021, Apple started a program to repair iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro units that did not emit sound from the receiver when making or receiving calls, and in 2024, iPhone 14 Plus owners who could not see previews when taking photos with the rear camera were also eligible for free repairs.
So while this is the first time Apple has specifically offered replacement devices, Apple has not declared an official service program. However, if your phone experiences the problem, you should contact AT&T or Apple to exchange it for a new phone.
