Apple confirms unfixable cellular bug in some AT&T iPhone 18 Pro Max units

Apple has identified a critical, unfixable cellular glitch affecting a limited number of iPhone 18 Pro Max devices connected to the AT&T network. Users impacted by the bug will see an 'SOS' status in their menu bar and lose access to cellular calls, texts, and data. Apple states that this issue cannot be resolved via software, necessitating a full device replacement. To prevent the glitch, Apple is urging all iPhone 18 Pro Max users on AT&T to update their devices to iOS 27.0.1 and install the latest carrier settings update. While the carrier update will deploy automatically within two weeks, users can manually trigger it via Settings > General > About. Those already experiencing the 'SOS' error are advised to contact Apple Support or AT&T to arrange for a free replacement handset. The issue appears specific to the Pro Max model and does not affect the standard iPhone 18 Pro.