Why can't a new iPhone make calls or receive texts after transferring data?
Answer
This usually means the phone number or cellular plan did not finish activating on the new iPhone, even though the apps and history transferred. Confirm cellular signal and carrier settings first, then refresh the network connection before resetting anything.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Resetting Network Settings removes saved Wi-Fi passwords; have your Wi-Fi password ready.
- Do not share carrier one-time codes with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Follow these steps
Confirm cellular status
Open Settings > Cellular and confirm Cellular Data is on and your T-Mobile line is enabled as the default voice and data line.
You should see: The line shows as on, and the status bar shows a carrier name or signal bars instead of No Service.
Refresh the cellular connection
Turn Airplane Mode on for about 15 seconds, then turn it off. If needed, turn Wi-Fi off briefly and check whether cellular calls or texts start working.
You should see: The phone reconnects to T-Mobile and can place a test call or receive a test text.
Restart the new iPhone
Power the iPhone fully off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on and wait for cellular registration to finish.
You should see: Signal returns and the Messages or Phone app can send and receive again.
Reset network settings if still stuck
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings, then rejoin Wi-Fi and test cellular again.
You should see: Saved Wi-Fi passwords are cleared and the phone rebuilds a fresh network connection; calls or texts begin working.
Contact T-Mobile to finish activation
If the line still cannot receive texts needed for account verification, contact T-Mobile support through their app over Wi-Fi or an alternate phone and ask them to refresh or reprovision the line on the new device.
You should see: The carrier confirms the number is active on the new iPhone and verification texts start arriving.
Not sure this is the right page? Check here
0 of 5 checked
Extra tips
What to look for: Status bar signal bars or No Service, Cellular under Settings, and whether Wi-Fi Calling or the T-Mobile line shows as inactive.
Before you change anything: Keep the old phone powered off if the number was moved, so only one device tries to use the line. Note whether the new iPhone shows any cellular bars or carrier name. Avoid erasing the new iPhone until network and carrier activation steps are finished. Never share passwords or one-time codes with unexpected callers.
Need a little more help?
Tell us what’s happening. Your saved expert chat will open beside this article.
Free to use. Don’t include passwords or personal details.