Cellular Update Failed
This alert appears after an iOS update when there is an issue with the cellular modem firmware or configuration on your device. Apple's official fix is to reinstall the current version of iOS from a computer.
- • On Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: Ensure your Mac is up to date
- • On Mac with macOS Mojave 10.14 or earlier: Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes
- • On PC: Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes or the Apple Devices app
- 1 Cellular modem firmware update failed
- 2 Carrier settings need to be updated
- 3 SIM card issues
- 4 Cellular hardware malfunction
How to Fix Error cellular-update-failed
Open Settings and Tap the Alert
Open the Settings app and tap the "Cellular Update Failed" message to learn more about it.
Back Up Your Device
Make sure you have a current backup of your iPhone or iPad in iCloud or on a computer before reinstalling.
Connect to a Computer
Connect your device to a computer with the latest version of macOS, iTunes, or the Apple Devices app. If "Trust this Computer" appears, unlock your device, then tap Trust.
Select Your Device
In Finder or the Apple Devices app, select your device. In iTunes, select it and click Summary.
Reinstall Without Erasing
In Finder or the Apple Devices app, click General (in iTunes, click Summary). Then Command-click (Mac) or Control-click (Windows) Check for Update, and click Download and Update.
Don't Disconnect Until It Completes
Your computer downloads and reinstalls the current version of software on your device. Keep it connected until the process completes.
If the Alert Returns
Check for a carrier settings update in Settings > General > About, remove and reinsert your SIM card, or reset network settings. Contact your carrier if the issue persists.
If you've tried all the steps above and still can't resolve the issue, you may need to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. You can also compare your case against Apple's official iOS update and restore errors page.