Getting stuck in “Emergency Calls Only” mode on your Android phone can be frustrating and worrisome, especially when you need to make urgent calls or access important information. This issue can occur due to various reasons, including poor network coverage, SIM card problems, or software glitches. In this article, we will delve into the possible causes of this problem and provide you with step-by-step solutions to get your Android phone back to normal.
Understanding the “Emergency Calls Only” Mode
The “Emergency Calls Only” mode is a feature on Android phones that allows users to make emergency calls even when the phone is not registered on a network or when the SIM card is not inserted. This mode is usually activated when the phone is unable to connect to a network or when the SIM card is not recognized. While this feature can be useful in emergency situations, it can be problematic when you need to make regular calls or access data services.
Causes of the “Emergency Calls Only” Mode
There are several reasons why your Android phone may be stuck in “Emergency Calls Only” mode. Some of the common causes include:
Poor network coverage: If you are in an area with weak or no network coverage, your phone may not be able to connect to a network, resulting in the “Emergency Calls Only” mode.
SIM card problems: A faulty or damaged SIM card can prevent your phone from registering on a network, leading to the “Emergency Calls Only” mode.
Software glitches: Software issues or bugs can cause your phone to get stuck in the “Emergency Calls Only” mode.
Phone settings: Incorrect phone settings, such as Airplane mode or Do Not Disturb mode, can also cause the “Emergency Calls Only” mode.
Troubleshooting Steps
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s go through some basic troubleshooting steps to identify the cause of the problem. Check your network coverage by moving to a different location or checking the network signal strength on your phone. Verify your SIM card by removing it and reinserting it or trying a different SIM card. Restart your phone to see if it resolves the issue. If none of these steps work, proceed to the solutions below.
Solutions to Get Your Android Phone Off Emergency Calls Only
Now that we have identified the possible causes of the “Emergency Calls Only” mode, let’s move on to the solutions. Here are some step-by-step methods to help you get your Android phone back to normal:
Method 1: Restart Your Phone and Check Network Coverage
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve the issue. Restart your phone and check if it connects to a network. If you are in an area with poor network coverage, try moving to a different location or checking the network signal strength on your phone. You can also try enabling and disabling Airplane mode to reset the network connection.
Method 2: Check and Fix SIM Card Issues
If you suspect that the issue is related to your SIM card, try the following steps:
Remove the SIM card from your phone and clean it gently with a soft cloth.
Reinsert the SIM card and restart your phone.
If you have a dual-SIM phone, try switching to the other SIM card to see if the issue persists.
If none of these steps work, you may need to contact your network provider to check if there are any issues with your SIM card or account.
Method 3: Reset Network Settings
Resetting network settings can help resolve issues related to network connectivity. To reset network settings on your Android phone, follow these steps:
Go to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset options.
Select Reset network settings and confirm.
Restart your phone and check if it connects to a network.
Method 4: Update Your Phone’s Software
Outdated software can cause various issues, including the “Emergency Calls Only” mode. To update your phone’s software, follow these steps:
Go to Settings > System > Advanced > System update.
Check for updates and install the latest software version.
Restart your phone and check if the issue is resolved.
Method 5: Perform a Factory Reset
If none of the above methods work, you may need to perform a factory reset on your phone. Back up your data before proceeding, as a factory reset will erase all data on your phone. To perform a factory reset, follow these steps:
Go to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset options.
Select Factory data reset and confirm.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the factory reset process.
Preventing the “Emergency Calls Only” Mode
To prevent the “Emergency Calls Only” mode from occurring in the future, follow these best practices:
Regularly update your phone’s software to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
Check your network coverage regularly and move to a different location if you experience poor coverage.
Handle your SIM card with care and avoid exposing it to water or physical damage.
Restart your phone regularly to clear out any temporary software issues.
In conclusion, getting stuck in the “Emergency Calls Only” mode on your Android phone can be frustrating, but there are several solutions to resolve the issue. By following the troubleshooting steps and methods outlined in this article, you should be able to get your phone back to normal. Remember to regularly update your phone’s software, check your network coverage, and handle your SIM card with care to prevent the “Emergency Calls Only” mode from occurring in the future. If you are still experiencing issues, contact your network provider or visit an authorized service center for further assistance.
What is the “Emergency Calls Only” mode on my Android phone?
The “Emergency Calls Only” mode on your Android phone is a state where your device can only make emergency calls, and you are unable to make or receive regular calls, send texts, or access the internet. This mode is usually triggered when your phone is not registered on a network, or there is a problem with your SIM card or network connection. It can be frustrating when your phone gets stuck in this mode, but fortunately, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue.
To get out of the “Emergency Calls Only” mode, you need to identify the underlying cause of the problem. Start by checking your SIM card to ensure it is properly inserted and not damaged. You can also try restarting your phone or checking your network settings to see if you are connected to a network. If you are still having trouble, you may need to contact your network provider to see if there are any issues with your account or the network in your area. By troubleshooting the problem and taking the necessary steps, you should be able to get your phone out of the “Emergency Calls Only” mode and back to normal functioning.
How do I check my SIM card to fix the “Emergency Calls Only” issue?
To check your SIM card, start by turning off your phone and removing the SIM card tray. Take out the SIM card and inspect it for any signs of damage, such as scratches or water damage. Make sure the SIM card is clean and free of dust or debris. If your SIM card is damaged, you may need to contact your network provider to obtain a replacement. If your SIM card appears to be in good condition, try reinserting it into the SIM card tray and turning your phone back on.
If reinserting the SIM card does not resolve the issue, you can try using a different SIM card to see if the problem is with the SIM card itself. You can also try cleaning the SIM card contacts with a soft cloth or brushing them gently with a small brush. Be careful not to touch the SIM card contacts or push them too hard, as this can cause further damage. By checking and maintaining your SIM card, you can help prevent the “Emergency Calls Only” issue and ensure your phone stays connected to the network.
What are the common causes of the “Emergency Calls Only” mode on Android phones?
The common causes of the “Emergency Calls Only” mode on Android phones include a faulty or damaged SIM card, a problem with the network connection, or an issue with the phone’s settings. Other causes can include a low signal strength, a conflict with other apps or services, or a hardware problem with the phone itself. In some cases, the “Emergency Calls Only” mode can be triggered by a software glitch or a bug in the phone’s operating system.
To troubleshoot the issue, start by checking your network settings and signal strength. Make sure you are in an area with a strong signal and that your phone is set to the correct network mode. You can also try restarting your phone or resetting the network settings to their default values. If you are still having trouble, you may need to contact your network provider or visit a authorized service center for further assistance. By identifying the underlying cause of the problem, you can take the necessary steps to resolve the issue and get your phone back to normal.
Can I fix the “Emergency Calls Only” issue by restarting my Android phone?
Restarting your Android phone can sometimes fix the “Emergency Calls Only” issue, especially if the problem is caused by a temporary software glitch or a minor network issue. To restart your phone, press and hold the power button until the phone turns off, then wait a few seconds and press the power button again to turn it back on. This can help reset the phone’s network connection and resolve any minor issues that may be causing the problem.
However, if the issue persists after restarting your phone, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps. You can try checking your SIM card, network settings, and signal strength, as well as resetting the network settings to their default values. You can also try booting your phone in safe mode or performing a factory reset, although this should be done as a last resort. By trying these different troubleshooting steps, you can help identify and resolve the underlying cause of the “Emergency Calls Only” issue and get your phone back to normal.
How do I reset my Android phone’s network settings to fix the “Emergency Calls Only” issue?
To reset your Android phone’s network settings, go to the Settings app and select the “Connections” or “Wireless & networks” option. From there, select the “Mobile networks” or “Cellular networks” option and look for the “Reset settings” or “Reset network settings” option. Select this option and follow the prompts to reset the network settings to their default values. This can help resolve any issues with the phone’s network connection and get you out of the “Emergency Calls Only” mode.
After resetting the network settings, your phone may prompt you to restart or reboot. Make sure to do this to ensure the changes take effect. Once your phone has restarted, try making a call or sending a text to see if the issue has been resolved. If you are still having trouble, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps, such as checking your SIM card or contacting your network provider. By resetting the network settings, you can help resolve the “Emergency Calls Only” issue and get your phone back to normal functioning.
What should I do if my Android phone is still stuck in “Emergency Calls Only” mode after trying troubleshooting steps?
If your Android phone is still stuck in “Emergency Calls Only” mode after trying troubleshooting steps, you may need to contact your network provider for further assistance. They can help you identify the underlying cause of the issue and provide additional troubleshooting steps or solutions. You can also try visiting an authorized service center or contacting the phone’s manufacturer for support. They can help you diagnose and repair any hardware issues that may be causing the problem.
In some cases, the issue may be related to a problem with the phone’s hardware or a software bug that requires a more advanced solution. The network provider or manufacturer may need to send you a replacement SIM card or phone, or provide you with a software update to resolve the issue. By seeking further assistance, you can get the help you need to resolve the “Emergency Calls Only” issue and get your phone back to normal. Be sure to have your phone’s make and model, as well as your account information, ready when you contact the network provider or manufacturer for support.