Apple has issued an urgent software update after testing raised concerns about how certain iPhones connect to Australia’s Triple Zero emergency call system during large-scale network outages.
The emergency update to iOS 26 applies specifically to the iPhone 12, addressing a compatibility issue that could prevent the device from connecting to emergency services when the primary mobile network is unavailable.
The issue was identified during laboratory testing conducted by Australian telcos following the nationwide Optus outage in September, which prompted a broader review of emergency call reliability across mobile devices.
Apple said the update “addresses a mobile network issue for iPhone 12 models when establishing a connection to emergency services in Australia,” noting that the problem would only arise under exceptional circumstances.
Unlike earlier issues affecting Samsung devices that relied on 3G networks, Apple said the iPhone 12 problem is limited in scope and does not affect older or newer models.
Apple confirmed that iPhone XS, XR, 11, and all models from iPhone 13 onwards are not impacted, and that the issue does not affect normal Triple Zero calls under standard conditions.
However, the company warned that during a major network failure similar to the Optus outage, iPhone 12 users running outdated software could face difficulties reaching emergency services.
Australian telcos, including Telstra, Optus and Vodafone/TPG, have urged customers to install the latest software update immediately to ensure continued access to Triple Zero.
Apple has encouraged users to keep automatic updates enabled, stressing that timely software updates are essential to maintaining safety, security and reliable access to emergency services.
