Apple Says Some AT&T iPhone 18 Pro Max Users Must Replace Phones After Service-Loss Bug

07:03 PM EDT, 10/02/2026 (MT Newswires) -- Apple (AAPL) said "a small number" of AT&T Inc. (T) customers who recently upgraded to the iPhone 18 Pro Max will need to replace their devices after a bug caused them to lose cellular service, multiple outlets reported Friday, citing an Apple statement provided to them. The bug has prevented some users from making calls, accessing data or sending and receiving texts on the network, leaving devices largely unusable unless connected to Wi-Fi, the reports said. Apple has issued a carrier settings update and released a new iOS version to prevent the glitch, and affected users will need to swap their phone for a new unit through Apple or AT&T, according to the reports. "We have identified an issue affecting a small number of iPhone 18 Pro Max users on the AT&T network that may cause a device to lose service and be unable to make calls," an Apple spokesperson said, as cited by the reports. It is unclear how many people are affected, the reports said. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment from MT Newswires.