Many users face a frustrating problem when their new iPhone shows the message “it may take a few minutes to activate” and stays stuck on that screen. This issue can arise due to a few reasons, including network problems, outdated software, or device settings. Thankfully, there are several ways to troubleshoot and resolve this issue so you can start using your new iPhone.
One of the first steps to address this problem is to check your internet connection. Ensure that your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, as activation requires a good internet connection. If you’re using mobile data, switch to Wi-Fi instead. Restarting your iPhone or using a computer with iTunes to activate it might also help.
Connecting your iPhone to a computer with the latest iTunes can be an effective solution. This will allow the device to complete the activation process through a wired connection. Make sure your computer has an internet connection and that it’s running the latest version of iTunes. These steps can often clear up any issues blocking the activation.
iPhone Stuck on “It May Take a Few Minutes to Activate”
If your iPhone is stuck on the “It may take a few minutes to activate” screen during setup, you’re not alone. This issue can pop up whether you’re setting up a new device, restoring from a backup, or updating iOS. While it should only take a few moments, sometimes the activation process freezes—leaving you staring at that message for way too long.
Here’s a step-by-step troubleshooting guide to help you get your iPhone activated and working properly.
🔁 1. Wait a Little Longer (5–10 Minutes)
Sometimes it really does take a few minutes—especially during peak hours (like launch day or major iOS updates). Give it at least 10 full minutes before assuming something is wrong.
📶 2. Check Your Internet Connection
A poor Wi-Fi or cellular connection can stall activation. Make sure you’re connected to a strong and stable Wi-Fi network, or try switching between:
- Wi-Fi and Cellular Data
- A different Wi-Fi network if available
You can also restart your modem/router if you’re not getting a reliable signal.
📱 3. Force Restart Your iPhone
A force restart can snap the setup process out of a loop:
- iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15: Quickly press and release the Volume Up, then Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo.
- iPhone 7 / 7 Plus: Press and hold Volume Down + Power button until you see the Apple logo.
- iPhone 6s / SE (1st gen): Hold Home button + Power button until the Apple logo appears.
Then try activating again.
📡 4. Make Sure Apple’s Servers Are Working
If Apple’s activation servers are down, your iPhone won’t be able to activate no matter what you do. Check the Apple System Status page on another device to make sure iOS Device Activation is green.
🧠 5. Remove and Reinsert Your SIM Card
iPhones often need a valid SIM card to complete activation, even on Wi-Fi. Try this:
- Use a SIM ejector tool or paperclip to remove the SIM tray.
- Wait a few seconds, then reinsert the SIM.
- Restart the iPhone and see if activation resumes.
You can also try a different SIM card if one’s available.
🔄 6. Use iTunes or Finder to Activate
If the iPhone won’t activate over the air, try using a computer:
- Connect your iPhone to a Mac (macOS Catalina or later) or PC with iTunes installed.
- Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows).
- Your iPhone should be detected and offer to activate via your computer.
🧼 7. Reset Network Settings
If your iPhone boots but activation still doesn’t finish, resetting network settings may help:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
- Tap Reset Network Settings.
- Enter your passcode if prompted, and confirm.
⚠️ This will erase all saved Wi-Fi networks, so be ready to reconnect afterward.
🛠️ 8. Contact Apple Support or Carrier
If you’ve tried everything and it’s still stuck:
- Apple Support can help determine if there’s a hardware or server issue.
- Your cellular carrier may need to update your account or activate your SIM on their end.
🧩 Bonus: If You See “Could Not Activate iPhone” Instead
This message means activation failed completely. Try:
- Making sure the iPhone isn’t locked to another carrier.
- Checking if Activation Lock (Find My) is still enabled from the previous owner.
- Using recovery mode via iTunes/Finder to restore the device.
Key Takeaways
- Stable internet connection is crucial for activation
- Restarting the iPhone can help resolve the problem
- Using iTunes on a computer is a reliable solution
Troubleshooting Activation Issues
Making sure your iPhone activates properly can help prevent frustration. Detailed below are key steps to troubleshoot these activation issues.
Check Apple System Status and Internet Connection
First, check the Apple System Status page to see if there are any ongoing issues. Sometimes, activation problems occur due to a system outage.
Ensure your internet connection is reliable. Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network. If that doesn’t work, try using mobile data.
Restart Your iPhone and Check SIM Card
Restart the device. Forcing a restart can solve many problems. Follow these steps to force restart your iPhone.
- Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
- Check if the SIM card is properly inserted. An invalid SIM can prevent activation. Try removing and reinserting the SIM card.
Update iOS and Use iTunes or Finder for Activation
Make sure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version. Older versions may have bugs causing the activation issue.
Connect your iPhone to a Mac or computer using a USB cable. Open iTunes or Finder on your computer. The device should be detected, and you can follow the prompts to complete the activation.
Contacting Support and Other Measures
If the above steps don’t work, you may need to contact Apple Support. They can help fix technical issues related to your Apple ID or activation lock.
Sometimes, the issue might be related to the Wi-Fi configuration. Restarting your Wi-Fi router can also help. Lastly, ensure you are entering the correct password for your Apple ID. If it’s incorrect, re-enter it carefully.
