SMS verification codes not delivered in UAE - authentication blocked

[chandlergach]

Issue Description

User cannot receive SMS verification codes for login on iOS in the UAE. User was previously logged in but got logged out and now cannot authenticate.

User Details

• Device: iPhone (model unclear - user reported "iPhone 17 Pro" which doesn't exist)
• iOS Version: User reported "26.3" (likely meant 18.x or similar - iOS versions don't go that high)
• Location: UAE
• Phone number: User confirmed they're using correct country code
• Alternative numbers: User tried different phone number, same issue

Troubleshooting Attempted

• Confirmed correct country code usage
• Tried alternative phone numbers
• User sees only phone number field on login screen (no email option)
• 4 rounds of troubleshooting completed

Likely Cause

SMS delivery issues in UAE region. This appears to be a service/infrastructure issue rather than user configuration, as:

1. User was previously logged in (SMS worked before)
2. Issue persists across multiple phone numbers
3. UAE has known SMS delivery restrictions for some services

Impact

High - User completely unable to access the app after being logged out

Suggested Investigation

• Check SMS delivery rates/issues in UAE
• Consider alternative authentication methods for affected regions
• Review SMS provider's delivery status for UAE numbers

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Reported by Anon987 via Discord
Original message