How to Fix iMessage Activation Error (Your Four Options)

Whenever Apple releases a new iOS version, there seems to be a recurring error that comes up.  With the release of iOS 10, this same problem has been encountered by a number of users who have already updated to the latest software update. We’re talking about the annoying iMessage activation error that says “Waiting for Activation”.

Since the problem has been around for quite some time, you might find a number of fixes that will instruct you how to get rid of the issue. But to be honest, only a few of these work. To help you avoid trying out different fixes, here are a few options you may try to get rid of this repetitive iMessage error.

Before you fix the problem through either option, remember to check these first:

• Time and date are set correctly. To do this, go to General and choose Set Automatically. If you have already selected the right time zone you are in, the right date and time will automatically be displayed.
• Uninterrupted Wi-Fi network. If you don’t have access to Wi-Fi, you may activate Cellular Data.
• International messages are allowed. Check if your provider permits international messages to your phone, otherwise, you won’t get the Activation message.
• Add your own phone number as a contact on the Phone app. You can do this by tapping on Settings > Phone > My Number. You will then be prompted to complete the missing details.

After you’ve checked these, you may proceed with trying to fix the iMessage activation error.

Option One: Airplane Mode

1. Open Settings > Messages. Turn off both FaceTime and iMessage.
2. Switch to Airplane Mode.
3. Since your Wi-Fi connection will automatically switch off with Airplane Mode, manually switch it back on.
4. Go back to Messages. Switch on iMessage.
5. If you haven’t done it yet, you’ll be prompted to add your Apple ID.
6. Go back to Settings. Switch off the toggle for Airplane Mode.
7. At this point, you’ll receive a Notification stating that your carrier may charge you for an SMS message. When this notification pops up, tap on OK.
8. If the notification message does not arrive, go to Messages > Turn off iMessage. Wait for a minute before you switch it back on.
9. This will let you see your email along with a grayed out number. You’ll know that iMessage has been activated when the number is checked.

Option Two: Sign Out of Apple ID

1. Open Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
2. Sign out of your Apple ID.
3. Switch off iMessage.
4. Wait for a few minutes before you power cycle your Wi-Fi (switch off and on again).
5. Sign-in using your Apple ID credentials before trying to activate iMessage.  

Option Three: Reset Your iPhone

If none of the two work, you may go for the third option; which will require you to reset your iPhone. This means that your settings will be reset back to default. It will reset your location and privacy settings, keyboard dictionary, network, and the home screen layout. You will have to adjust these once again after you reset your device. But if it activates iMessage, it’s worth a try. Remember to log back in with your Apple ID credentials.

Option Four: Restore Your iPhone

This should be your last option since restoring your iPhone means that it will delete everything stored on your device. If you are okay with this option, you can go through with the process. After restoring your device, you can check if the iMessage activation error has been fixed.