IPhone 3GS: Waiting for activation and availability
Filed under: Cell Phone Information, Cell Phones | By: Daniel
Posted on: June 20, 2009 | 18 Comments
Many of the early buyers never saw a problem when activating their nice new iPhone 3GS, but for some it has been a nightmare.
We have had reports of problems with Apple iPhone 3GS activation, and some users have been waiting for activation over an hour. Many gadget fans crave for instant gratification, and this is something that was not happening when it came to activation.
The new iPhone 3G S has a lot to offer like video recording and voice controlling, so the “Waiting for activation. This may take some time” message is sure to rub people up the wrong way.
One of the LA Times news reporters had this very problem with their iPhone, and they called Apple to find out what’s happening. They were told that after the online setup, some users might have to wait a few hours for their iPhone 3GS to find the network.
The new iPhone in 2009 has been much easier to get hold of than the iPhone 3G in 2008; although we are not sure if there was more availability or this was down to less demand.
Have you had problems activating the new iPhone?
CLICK HERE to keep updated with the latest news, share a comment or problems with products and services. Follow us on twitter or read more iPhone news.
Got my 3g s activated in less than 30 minutes on release date
42 hours and still not activated!
I am seeing the same message. It has been over 32 hours now. I restarted the phone several times since in some forums they seemed to suggest that might help but to no avail.
Now I guess I’ll have to wait till monday. I an in switzerland and subscribed to orange.
Your new sim card has to be activated by your carrier before your iPhone will be activated. I was advised this when I called o2 about the “waiting for activation” problem.
I got phone on Friday and still waiting, has any of you gotten activated yet, this is awful, I will never try and activate a phone on the day it comes out.
Bummed in Iowa
I got mine today.
It’s been hours and stillnot activating.
I phoned O2 and they said to out in the sim that came with the phone, but I didn’t get on. I’ve only got my old (none 3G) sim.
I’m going to the O2 shop to throw it at them tomorrow.
From an email I received from AT&T:
To activate your wireless device & service, you must follow these steps IN ORDER:
Step 1 – Charge your phone – for best results, leave your phone OFF
Step 2 - Activate New iPhone using iTunes
• Download and install iTunes
• Connect your iPhone 3G to your PC or Mac
• Follow the instructions in iTunes
Step 3– Check for unheard voicemail messages and write down any important information.
• Once activated, all messages and greetings will be lost.
Step 4 - Activate Your Service
Learn how
or call 1-866-895-1099 from another phone
• Be Ready to give the wireless number you want to activate, the account holder’s SSN and shipping zip code
Step 5 – Turn New iPhone ON & Make a Test Call
• If your test call is not successful, call 1-866-391-0749 from another phone
I hope this is helpful to some.
After receiving my iPhone on Friday I’ve been waiting for my iPhone to activate for a whole weekend!