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Many Android users have reported facing the Emergency Calls Only issue where the phone is unable to connect to a network. When this happens, you can only contact the emergency services, hence the error message.
Furthermore, with this error message, you cannot call, text, or activate the internet as you usually do when things are normal. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix the issue. In this article, we’ll explain what are the possible reasons behind the error and how to fix it easily.
Also read: How to hide photos on Android?
Possible reasons why your phone says Emergency Calls Only
Here are some of the reasons for the Emergency Calls Only message on your Android phone:
The phone is out of network coverage area
If you are travelling to a remote location where there are network issues, you may see this error message on your screen. Sometimes, even in cities, you can experience network issues leading to this message.
Problems with the SIM card
Another reason for the Emergency Calls Only message on your phone is problems with your SIM card. Maybe the SIM is not inserted properly, damaged hardware, or dirt accumulated on the SIM card.
The phone is locked on another carrier
If you have purchased the phone from another country and moved to a new one, you may see this error. Or, you may have purchased a phone on which the carrier can’t be switched without first unlocking the device.
Software glitch or a virus
Sometimes, temporary software glitches or malware infections from malicious apps can cause severe abnormalities with the device. This can also lead to network problems and other network settings distortions.
Damage to the phone
Have you dropped your phone recently or it got wet? If this is the case, your phone may have suffered permanent damage that could have affected the SIM card or other hardware causing the Emergency Calls Only error.
Also read: How to transfer text messages from Android to Android?
How to fix the Emergency Calls Only error on Android?
Now that we have understood the possible reasons for the Emergency Calls Only error on Android, let us head to the fixes:
Fix the network signal issues
As explained earlier, weak signal strength can result in this error. To fix the network signal issues, you can take the following steps:
- If possible, head to a different location.
- Try another carrier service.
- Try turning on the Aeroplane Mode for a few seconds and then turn it off to refresh the network connection.
Fix the SIM card malfunctions
A broken or malfunctioned SIM is the most probable reason why you are seeing an Emergency Calls Only error message on Android. Here’s how to fix it:
- Turn off the phone and remove the SIM card. Wipe it clean with some mild alcohol or a clean cloth and then properly insert it again. Boot up your phone and see if it fixes the error.
- While you’re at it, check the SIM for obvious signs of damage including cracks or bends. If you see any damage, replace the SIM asap.
- Also, ensure that the SIM is inserted properly and in the right slot.
If nothing works, you can disable the SIM and enable it back again. The steps are mentioned below:
- Head to Settings and then tap on Network and Internet.
- Tap on SIM cards.
- Turn off the toggle in front of the SIM that is not working. Give your phone a restart and then turn on the toggle.
Clear SIM Toolkit cache
SIM Toolkit helps the SIM card to seamlessly connect to the network and perform other essential functions. However, due to cache accumulation, the app may not work as intended leading to the Emergency Calls Only error.
So, clearing the cache of the SIM Toolkit may help:
- Open Settings and then tap on Apps.
- Now, type SIM Toolkit in the top search box and then select the app.
- Next, head to Storage and cache.
- Tap on Clear cache.
Tweak the network settings
Sometimes, the network settings on your phone are incorrect causing the Emergency Calls Only error. You can fix it by switching to another network, usually the one below that you are currently on. For example, if you are currently using 5G, switch to 4G or if you are on 4G, switch to 3G, and so on.
- Open Settings and then select Network and Internet.
- Tap on Mobile network.
- Next, select the Preferred network type option.
- Select the network that you want.
Reset the network settings
When you perform a reset of the network settings, you essentially perform a factory reset of the WiFi networks, Bluetooth connections, and cellular settings.
Resetting the network settings is a sure-shot way to fix any network-related error including the Emergency Calls Only issue.
- Open Settings and then tap on System.
- Select Reset options.
- Next, tap on Reset WiFi, mobile and Bluetooth.
- Tap on Reset settings to start the process.
Update Android OS
An outdated Android OS can result in various errors including the Emergency Calls Only error. It can also cause privacy and security issues on your phone. So, you should update your Android OS to the latest version.
- Tap on Settings.
- Select System.
- Tap on Check for updates.
Perform a factory reset
As a last option to fix the Emergency Calls Only issue, you can try to perform a factory reset of your Android phone.
- Open Settings and then tap on System.
- Next, select Reset options.
- Finally, select Erase all data (factory reset).
In conclusion, the Emergency Call Only error occurs when your phone cannot connect to the network carrier, malfunctioning of SIM, a software glitch, or hardware damage. However, you can take the necessary steps that we have listed above to fix the issue easily.
Also read: How to share your location on Android?
