iPhone users cut off from Telstra network after latest Apple software update
Thousands of iPhone users were unable to send text messages or make phone calls this week, including calls to Triple-0, due to an issue with the phone’s latest software update.
On Wednesday, Telstra announced that they had “identified an issue with some older Apple devices connecting to our network.”
Older iPhone models, including iPhone 8, 8 plus and iPhone X, which have been updated to Apple’s latest update, iOS 16.7.13, are being investigated.
“We are working with Apple on this issue as a priority and will share any updates as we have them,” a Telstra spokesperson said in a statement on Thursday.
Customers were advised not to update their phones until the companies found a solution.
Other network operators, including Optus and Vodafone, were not affected, nor were newer iPhone models using Telstra.
A federal government spokesman told the ABC the matter was being treated as “urgent”.
“This is a significant issue for affected customers and Telstra and Apple advise that they are working to fix this urgently,” the spokesperson said.
“Affected people should contact Telstra as their service provider if they have concerns or special needs.”
Advice for affected customers
On Thursday afternoon, Telstra announced that Apple had released a carrier settings update to fix the issue.
Instructions are as follows:
- Connect your affected iPhone to Wi-Fi
- Tap Settings > General > About
- Accept carrier settings update by tapping “OK”
- Confirm the installed update by going to Settings > General > About and make sure it says “Telstra 54.1” next to the Service Provider.
- If the Service Provider’s version does not show “Telstra 54.1”, check that you are connected to Wi-Fi and repeat the steps above.
“We are aware that some customers on the Telstra network in Australia are unable to make or receive calls on iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X after the iOS 16.7.13 update. We have identified a fix that will be available in an upcoming software update,” Apple said in a statement to 9News.
Customers are advised to check the Telstra website for updates.
