Emergency symbol |Full meaning of SOS| save our souls

Akindele Michael September 9, 2023December 15, 2023 7 min read

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Even kids playing around know that when you’re in a life-or-death situation, like being stuck on an island with scary crabs and lava all around, the way to let people know you’re in trouble is by waving your arms and shouting SOS.

You can draw SOS on the sand, use Morse code, or if you have a pen, write it on your hand and show it to others. We all understand that sending an SOS signal gives you the best shot at getting rescued. In this article, we will unravel the meaning of SOS and explore its various implications, from iPhone data to emergency situations.

The Origin of SOS

The origins of SOS can be traced back to the early 20th century when wireless telegraphy was at its peak. Contrary to popular belief, SOS does not stand for anything specific. It was chosen simply because it was easily recognizable and could be transmitted and understood quickly.

What Does SOS Stand For? Or what does sos mean?

SOS, in its simplest form, stands for “Save Our Souls” or “Save Our Ship.” It has a long history dating back to maritime use as a distress signal, but today, it has evolved into something more diverse.

SOS on iPhone Data

When you see SOS next to your iPhone’s data signal, it means your device is struggling to establish a stable connection with your mobile network. It’s a sign that you might be in an area with weak cellular coverage or experiencing network issues.

SOS on iPhone Calls

If you’ve ever noticed “SOS” displayed on your iPhone when making a call, it typically indicates that the call you’re trying to make is not going through due to poor signal strength or network problems.

SOS on Phones in General

Beyond iPhones, SOS can appear on other phones as well. It’s a universal symbol for a critical situation where your phone can only make emergency calls. This can happen when you’re in an area with no cellular coverage from your carrier.

SOS Next to Wi-Fi on an iPhone

Seeing “SOS” next to the Wi-Fi symbol on your iPhone might be perplexing. It usually means that your device is unable to connect to a Wi-Fi network, and you’re using your mobile data instead.

When Your Phone Says SOS

In essence, when your phone says “SOS,” it’s a call for help from your device, indicating that it’s facing difficulties in establishing a connection, whether it’s through cellular networks or Wi-Fi.

FAQs

Why does my iPhone show SOS next to the Wi-Fi symbol?

– When you see “SOS” next to the Wi-Fi symbol on your iPhone, it means your device is struggling to connect to a Wi-Fi network, and you’re using mobile data instead.

What should I do if my phone constantly displays “SOS Only”?

– If your phone consistently shows “SOS Only,” you may need to check your SIM card or contact your service provider, as it indicates a lack of regular network coverage.

Can I make regular calls when my phone says SOS?

– When your phone displays “SOS,” it typically means you can only make emergency calls. Regular calls may not go through due to network issues.

Is SOS only used on iPhones?

– No, SOS is a universal symbol for a critical situation on phones. It can appear on various mobile devices when there are network problems.

Why is SOS used as a distress signal on phones?

– SOS has historical significance as a maritime distress signal, and its use on phones symbolizes a need for help or assistance when facing connectivity problems.