Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, cellular signals can get blocked by buildings, walls and other large objects. If you’re in an area that gets a weak signal, try using Wi-Fi instead.
This will allow you to use your phone for calls while still getting a good signal. Plus, it’ll save you on data costs.
1. Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Using Wi-Fi instead of cellular in weak coverage areas for your iPhone can help improve signal strength. However, you may experience slower download speeds than on a cellular network, depending on your internet provider and where you are.
One of the best ways to boost your phone’s data speed and signal is to update its operating system and apps. These updates often include bug fixes and improved cellular network support.
Another simple fix to try is to reset your network settings on your iPhone. Resetting your saved network names and passwords can clean out unused login details, which can make your cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity work better.
2. Turn off cellular data
Using Wi-Fi instead of cellular is a great way to improve your iPhone’s reception in weak coverage areas. iOS and iPadOS automatically scan for nearby Wi-Fi networks, and if they’re available, you can connect to them without having to use your cellular data.
In order to turn off cellular data, open the Control Center and tap Cellular. From there, you can turn it off and on, set which apps and services use cellular data, see cellular data usage, and more.
Another option to try if you’re still having trouble getting cellular data is to reset the network settings on your iPhone. This usually fixes both cellular connectivity issues and personal hotspot problems.
3. Try Wi-Fi calling
Whether you’re at home, in the office, or traveling abroad, WiFi calling allows you to call and text from anywhere that has an internet connection.
This can help you avoid paying cellular companies high international rates, especially when conducting business outside the US. Just make sure your phone has the right settings and you’re connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network to use it.
The iPhone will automatically switch to Wi-Fi calling when you’re in weak coverage areas, and you’ll see “Wi-Fi” after your carrier’s name in the status bar. It also tries to use cellular service for emergency calls when it can.
4. Try a signal booster
If your iPhone is stuck in an office or other place with weak cellular coverage, you can try using Wi-Fi instead. This is a feature supported by many carriers that allows your phone to make calls over your internet connection when your cellular signal is poor.
You can also try to move around your location to improve signal strength, which is an easy fix if you are in a city or other densely populated area. Just move away from a wall or other object that might be blocking cell signals and see if that helps your reception.
Another option is to try a signal booster, which amplifies your cellular signal so that it can be used in weak areas. These devices are available for most North American carriers and work by capturing a cell signal from a nearby tower and broadcasting it to the intended area.
5. Switch carriers
Cellular networks often get blocked or interrupted by large objects, such as mountains, buildings, and even cars. This can cause your iPhone to have spotty cell reception.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to improve your cell phone coverage in weak coverage areas. For starters, you can try using Wi-Fi instead of cellular when possible.
This can help you save money by avoiding the data plan charges that come with cellular connections, and it might also be a good way to avoid congestion on the cellular network.
However, if you still have problems with your signal, switching carriers can be an option to try. It’s important to choose a carrier that provides the best coverage in your area.
