Your cellular network is not working. Maybe it's AT&T, which went down for many users on Thursday. Or maybe it's another service in a week, a month, or a year.
But you really need to make a call. How do you do it?
The short answer: you need a Wi-Fi connection. If you have that, there are a few ways to overcome it.
Call via wifi
First, make sure Wi-Fi calling is turned on in your phone's settings. iPhone users can turn on Wi-Fi calling by going to Settings and then turning on Wi-Fi calling on the Cellular settings page. Android users can activate Wi-Fi calling from the Phone app.
Once you're connected, you should be able to make a call, more or less normally.
Use an app
If you can connect your phone to Wi-Fi, you can use various apps to stay connected. Those who have WhatsApp can make phone calls and exchange text messages without having a cellular connection. The same goes for Meta's Messenger app, which allows users with a Facebook account to text, call, or video chat.
If you have an iPhone, you can use FaceTime to make phone calls. If you don't want to video chat with someone and show your face, you can select the audio call option, which works just like a phone call. Those with Android can use Google Voice to do the same.
In case of emergency, use SOS
If you need to call 911, there is another option, the SOS feature on many iPhones. When you activate SOS, the phone will automatically call the local emergency number and report your location information. It will also alert any emergency contacts you have set up.
iPhone models 14 and later will make the call using satellites, even if cellular service and Wi-Fi are not available. It is important that you use this function only in case of emergency. You can't jump on it just to call grandma.
Use a landline
Imagine a telephone plugged into the wall. Calls you make on this device will be sent through cables attached to tall wooden poles.
Science fiction? Incredibly, this technology exists today! Not only that, but the sound quality is usually better as well.
These phones, sometimes called landlines, are actually found in many homes, perhaps in the home of someone you know. And these relics will work perfectly even during a major cell phone outage.