CAPE TOWN - Apple has revealed that a few iPhone 7 models have been affected by a bug which prevents the device from connecting to a network and shows "no service".
The company says the problem is due to a failed component on the main logic board and will offer free repairs to customers experiencing the issue.
iPhone 7s with model numbers A1660, A1780, A1660 or A1779 have been experiencing the network status problems.
If you've purchased your iPhone overseas such in China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macao or the US and was produced between September 2016 and February 2018 then your device could potentially be affected.
If users in the mentioned regions are experiencing the problem would be reimbursed for paying for the repair of their phones, the company said in a statement.
“If you believe you paid for a repair related to this issue, and have not received an email from Apple by the end of March 2018, please contact Apple,” the company said.
“If your device exhibits the symptom described above, Apple will repair your device, free of charge. Your iPhone will be examined prior to any service to verify that it is eligible for this program. This program only applies to iPhone 7."
Apple advises users that if their device has any other issues such as a cracked screen then you need to fix it before using the complete 'no network' repair service.
iPhone users in SA can go to their local iStore if they have the issue.
However, users would need their international warranty, a proof of purchase that shows the serial number of the device and also a proof that all import duties were paid.