Apple’s iOS 12.2 update delivers some crucial fixes, but iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max owners are still dealing with a variety of problems.
Those who’ve picked up Apple’s 2018 flagships are complaining about connectivity issues, activation problems, Bluetooth issues, Wi-Fi issues, and more.
The list of problems is growing and we expect it to get larger as more people decide to buy the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Plus in 2019 and beyond.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the most common iPhone XS problems plaguing the two models. We’ll also provide you with some tips and resources that will come in handy if and when you start noticing issues on your device.
iPhone XS Problems
Some iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max users are still dealing with activation problems. Activation issues are extremely common so if you’re having trouble activating your new phone there’s no need to panic.
If you’re unable to activate your iPhone right now, check Apple’s System Status page. If it’s not green, you’ll want to wait until it’s green and then try again.
If it’s green and it’s still not working, make sure you have a SIM card in your iPhone. If you’re getting a “No Sim” or “Invalid SIM” error you’ll want to head here for help.
On top of that, we’re hearing about iCloud Restore problems. This is also a common issue with new phones and it can be rather tricky to fix. If you run into issues restoring from iCloud, head here for a few potential fixes.
iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max users are also complaining about problems setting up Face ID, problems with iCloud, Wi-Fi problems, sound problems, cellular data issues, and Bluetooth issues.
Where to Find Feedback
If you start noticing issues on your iPhone XS or iPhone XS Max, or if you’re thinking about buying one, you’ll want to dig into feedback and fixes from those who have upgraded. There are a few places to do that.
We recommend keeping an eye on YouTube, Apple’s discussion forums, social media sites like Twitter/Facebook, and the MacRumors forums.
These are great places to find out more about iPhone XS hardware and software problems.
How to Fix iPhone XS Problems
If you run into an iPhone XS problem there’s no reason to panic. There’s a very good chance you can fix the issue(s) you’re seeing in a matter of minutes.
If you don’t know where to start, take a look at our list of fixes for the most common iPhone XS problems. This guide outlines fixes that could help you get your experience back on track.
We’ve also released some tips to help you improve your device’s overall performance and a guide that could help you improve your iPhone XS battery life.
If you can’t find a fix for your issue in those walkthroughs, you’ll want to check Apple’s discussion forums for potential fixes.
If you’d prefer to get in touch with Apple, you can do so via the company’s support account on Twitter. You can also get in contact with Apple Support via the company’s website.
If Apple’s frontline customer service can’t fix your problem, you might want to take your phone into your local Apple Store or your local carrier location to see if they can diagnose your issue.
If you’ve got an Apple Store in your area, schedule a Genius Bar appointment and have them run diagnostics on your device to see if they can pinpoint the problem.
Your iPhone XS is under warranty so they might offer you a replacement if they determine there’s a serious defect.
You Can Downgrade Your iPhone XS
There’s no way to downgrade an iPhone XS or iPhone XS Plus to iOS 11. You’re stuck with iOS 12. However, you can downgrade to iOS 12.1.4 if the iOS 12.2 update starts acting up on your phone.
The iOS 12.1.4 downgrade won’t be open forever so those who think a move to a previous version might help will need to make a move soon.
If you’re unfamiliar with the process our guide to the iOS 12 downgrade will walk you through everything you need to know.
What’s Next
It could be a few weeks before help arrives.
Apple’s confirmed an iOS 12.3 update and the software is currently in beta testing ahead of a release sometime later this year.
The company hasn’t confirmed an iOS 12.3 release date but we expect the software to roll out to the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max in May.
If you can’t wait, you can try the iOS 12.3 beta on your device. It’s plagued with issues, but it could have a positive impact on your phone’s performance.