Apple is offering free replacements to some iPhone 18 Pro Max owners after confirming a mobile network connection problem affecting a number of devices.

The issue has been reported on AT&T’s network in the United States, reportedly affecting thousands of customers. 

The affected phones are potentially losing mobile service and unable to send messages, use mobile data or make calls, even to emergency services. 

Apple has confirmed that devices which have already lost service cannot be restored through a software update and will need to be replaced.

Apple says it has released iOS 27.0.1, along with a carrier settings update, to help prevent the problem from affecting additional iPhone 18 Pro Max users. The carrier update is being rolled out automatically, while users can also prompt the update by opening Settings, selecting General and then About. 

Those customers already affected are being directed to arrange a replacement via Apple or AT&T.

While the underlying cause of the issue has not been publicly disclosed, according to Apple, so far it has only been identified among iPhone 18 Pro Max users on AT&T, and not otheriPhone models or carriers.

The issue comes not long after Apple has launched the iPhone 18 Pro Max, with the new Pro range having been released 18 September. 

There is currently no indication that the specific AT&T fault is affecting local networks or iPhone owners in Australia. If a device does develop a fault, Australian consumers are protected under the Australian Consumer Law.

Apple’s Australian warranty documentation states that consumers are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund where a product has a major failure, while other faults can also entitle consumers to a repair or replacement. These rights apply independently of Apple’s voluntary warranty arrangements.

The incident is primarily a US connectivity issue for now, and not a recall of the iPhone 18 Pro Max.