iPhone couldn’t Activate Cellular Data Network, How to Fix the Problem?

Updated Jan 06,2017 | by Shannon

Users of Apple iPhone may be experiencing an error while trying to establish a data connection. This error is prevalent after traveling due to some reason. There is a possibility that it could be occurring because you have poor connection to the wireless connection.

It is more likely that all your iPhone requires some of the settings calibrated. Numbers of users have reported that they are facing the following error:

Could Not Activate Cellular Data Network: You Are Not Subscribed to a Cellular Data Service.

If you happen to see this error on your iOS device, or cannot connect to the cellular date or cellular network, here are some tips to fix these cellular issues of your iPhone listed below. After performing each of these fixes, test to see if your issue is resolved.

1.         Check the surrounding coverage area to ensure that you are in an area that facilitates cellular network coverage.

2.         If you are unable to connect to a cellular network using your iPhone, check that cellular is ON in the Settings > Cellular. If you are on iPad go to Settings> Cellular Data.

3.         If you are traveling abroad or internationally, check your device to see whether it is set up for data roaming. Settings > Cellular > Data Roaming.

In some countries you shall see Mobile instead of Cellular.

4.         Try restarting your iPhone or iPad.

5.         Check your iOS device for Carrier Settings Update.

6.         Update your iPad or iPhone to the latest version of iOS available.

7.         Take out the SIM card from your iPhone and put it back in. If the SIM card happens to be damaged, or fails to fit in the SIM tray, contact your carrier.

8.         If you happen to own another device, try if you are able to establish a connection with your carrier’s network within that location you are in. Contact carrier and :

•    Assure there are no outages in that area.

•    Confirm that your account is active.

•    Furthermore, see that your device is not blocked from actually receiving cellular services and the right data plan is set up in your device.  

9.         Another option is to reset your network settings on your device. Tap Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This shall also reset the Wi-Fi networks and passwords along with VPN, APN and cellular settings that you may have used before.

10.     If you are still unable to connect to your cellular network and your carrier has confirmed that there is no issue with your network or account, restore your iOS device.

If You Can Connect To 3G but not 4G LTE:

You need to make sure that your device is compatible with LTE. Go to Settings > Cellular > Enable LTE. Identify your iPhone and then compare its model number with the list of all supported LTE carriers for your location or country.

If you have an iPad, compare the model number with the list of all supported LTE carriers for your country or location. The LTE options may vary depending on the carrier network you are using.

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