Nothing ruins the perfect fall road trip faster than watching your phone’s signal bars disappear. One minute you’re cruising along, listening to a podcast and following GPS to a scenic overlook; the next, everything cuts out. Dropped calls and a frozen map are frustrating, but losing signal in a remote area can also be a serious safety concern, especially on those beautiful backroads where cell towers are few and far between.
But you don’t have to put up with bad reception or invest in a pricey new phone plan. Most of the time, you can achieve a stronger, more reliable signal on your iPhone or Android with a few simple tricks. Sometimes, toggling Airplane mode or knowing the best place to keep your phone in the car can make all the difference. Before your next adventure, check out these easy ways to boost your cell signal and stay connected.
Note: Although software across different iPhone models is relatively the same, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other Android phones may have different software versions, so certain settings and their locations might differ depending on the device.
To improve your cellphone service, try these steps first
The settings on your phone can help you get better cell service, but there are other tricks for improving your reception without even touching your phone’s software.
- Move yourself to eliminate obstructions. Stepping away from metal objects or concrete walls may improve your reception by getting you closer to the signal.
- Remove your phone case. Thick cases can block signals. Take it off to get a better reception.
- Ensure your phone is charged. Low battery can hinder your phone’s ability to search for and connect to a stronger signal.
Always start by toggling Airplane mode
Turning your phone’s connection off and back on is often the quickest solution for poor signal. If you’re moving through different locations, toggling Airplane mode restarts the Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular network. This prompts your phone to search for the best signal available.
Android: Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the Quick Settings panel, then tap the Airplane mode icon. Wait for your phone to fully disconnect (around 15 seconds) before toggling it off again.
iPhone: Access Airplane mode from the Control Center, which varies depending on your model. On the iPhone X and later, swipe down from the top-right corner; older models require a swipe up from the bottom. Tap the icon, which turns orange when enabled, and wait about 15 seconds before turning it off.
If Airplane mode doesn’t work, restart your phone
Sometimes, you just need a fresh start. Restarting your phone can resolve various connectivity issues.
Android: Hold the power button (or power button and volume down, depending on your model) until the menu appears, then tap Restart. If no restart option is available, tap Power Off, then turn it back on.
iPhone: For iPhone X and older, hold the sleep/wake button and either volume button until you see the power slider. Swipe to power down, then press the sleep/wake button to turn it back on. A force reset can also be performed by pressing the volume up, then down, and holding the side button until the Apple logo appears.
Older phone? Remove and reinsert your SIM card
Removing and reinserting your SIM card can sometimes remedy reception issues. If it’s dirty, clean it; if it’s damaged, consider replacing it.
All phones: Use a SIM card tool or an unfolded paper clip to eject the SIM tray. Ensure the SIM card is properly positioned and put it back. Phones with eSIM don’t require removal; simply restart your device.
Check your carrier settings and update your software
Mobile carriers frequently release updates to improve connectivity. For most users, keeping your carrier settings up to date is essential.
iPhone: Carrier updates usually appear automatically. To check for updates manually, go to Settings > General > About. An update prompt will appear if one is available.
Android: Not all devices have carrier settings. Search for “carrier settings” in the Settings app. For supported Pixels, go to Settings > Network & internet > Internet, tap the gear next to your carrier, then tap Carrier settings versions.
Reset your phone’s network settings
A clean slate can sometimes fix connectivity challenges. Resetting your network settings refreshes your connections, but keep in mind that it will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings.
Android: Search for “reset” in the Settings app and select “reset network settings.” For Pixels, it’s labeled Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth. Don’t forget to reconnect to your Wi-Fi networks post-reset.
iPhone: Navigate to Settings > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. Your phone will restart after you confirm this action.
Contact your phone carrier
If issues persist, uncertainties may stem from your wireless carrier. A cell tower could be down, or there might be broader connectivity problems affecting the area.
For ongoing issues with connectivity, get in touch with your carrier to start troubleshooting. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of coverage levels in your neighborhood.
If all else fails, consider a signal booster
If after trying all these troubleshooting steps you’re still struggling to maintain a solid signal, a signal booster might be a good option. These devices amplify cellular signals, improving coverage in specific areas of your home.
The downside is cost; options start at approximately $349 for single room coverage and can go up to $999 to cover larger areas. Brands like Wilson often offer money-back guarantees and warranties for their products.