How to Fix iMessage Activation Error – 7 Steps to Fix

In this guide, we will go over what are the primary causes of the iMessage activation error, and also we will present to you the solutions that will have your issue resolved in a short while, which in turn will have you fixing server issues, incorrect settings, Apple ID problems, and other common issues that may be causing iMessage to not turn on.

How to Fix iMessage Activation Error

If you are having trouble with iMessage activation on your iPhone that is very common. This is the top issue which iPhone users report. The iMessage activation error which appears at the time of setting up your device for the first time or while turning on iMessage is what we are talking about. It may happen due to a number of reasons network issues, Apple ID problems, wrong settings, or temporary system glitches. 

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Why Does iMessage activation Error Happen?

iMessage issues may present for a variety of reasons. Sometimes your iPhone may fail to connect to Apple’s servers. Also Sometimes you may have an unstable internet connection, set an incorrect date and time, or have a problem with your Apple ID. As with what may cause it, the iMessage issue is usually easy to fix if you follow the right steps. 

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1. Check your internet connection

One of the main causes of iMessage activation error is a poor or unstable internet connection. For iMessage to activate you must have a strong Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.

Try the following:

• Disable and then re-enable Wi-Fi.
• Switch to mobile data from Wi-Fi or the other way around.
• Restart your router if needed

If you have issues with your internet connection the iMessage activation error will appear. 

Read More: How to Get iMessage on Mac

2. Check Apple’s Server Status

Sometimes the issue of iMessage activation is not related to your device. Sometimes Apple’s iMessage servers may be down which in turn will cause the issue. When they are down you cannot activate. Go to the Internet and look up Apple System Status, which is the best source for these reports. Should you find that iMessage isn’t showing green then do not worry the issue will be resolved as soon as Apple fixes the related server problem. 

3. Check your Date and Time

Date and time set incorrectly are the cause of iMessage activation errors. iMessage requires accurate system time to connect with Apple servers.

Follow this

• Settings > General > Date Time > Set Automatcially

Once fixed try out iMessage again. Many users report that timing issues caused their iMessage activation to fail. 

4. Turn iMessage Off and On Again

A fix for the iMessage activation issue is to do a restart.

Go To

• Settings > Messages > Turn off iMessage > Wait 20 seconds > Turn on Again.

This remedies the issue and also reports to remove iMessage activation errors right away. 

5. Log Out and Log In to Apple ID

Sometimes the issue of iMessage activation comes from a non syncing Apple ID.

Follow This

• Settings > Your Name > Sign Out.
• Restart your phone
• Sign in again

Once you have your Apple ID back online try to enable iMessage. This solution works for a lot of people’s issue with iMessage. 

6. Check your phone number and Carrier Settings

Make sure that your correct phone number is entered on your device, if it is left out or is wrong you will see the iMessage activation error.

Also, Go-To

• Settings > General > About

If you get a notice for Carrier Settings Update go ahead and install it. Outdated carrier settings are also a cause of the iMessage activation error. 

7. Restart your iPhone

A fix which works in most cases is to do a restart which will in turn clear out the minor issues that cause the iMessage activation error. Just turn off your phone, wait a few secodns and then Turn it on Again. Then try getting iMessage to connect. 

Conclusion

iMessage may put you at frustration but it’s also quite a simple issue that most of the time has a quick solution. As for what may be the issue your network, Apple ID, servers, or in some cases your device settings; by going through these solutions you will see that which one is right for you. With a solid connection, up to date settings, and that all of your account info is correct, iMessage should work as it should.