[2024] Fix Unable to Activate iPhone 16 in 8 Best Ways

"Unable to activate" error on SIM card after updating iPhone-----Apple forum

If you own an iPhone 16 and are struggling to activate it, you might feel frustrated and confused. There could be several reasons behind your iPhone 16's activation issue. Fortunately, various solutions can help you address this problem and enjoy your new device.

In this article, we will outline 8 methods to fix the "unable to activate iPhone 16" issue in 2024.

Solutions for fixing unable to activate iPhone 16:

Part 1: Can’t Activate Your iPhone 16?

When trying to activate your iPhone 16, you might occasionally encounter an issue. Your screen may display a message such as "Unable to Activate," "Activation Error," "Activation Required," or "iPhone 16 is not activated." This can be frustrating, leaving you unable to use your new device.

Part 2: Why Is My iPhone 16 Not Activated?

Before diving into solutions for fixing the activation issue, you might wonder why your iPhone 16 is not activated. Here are some potential reasons:

• Your iPhone 16 is not connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network.
• The activation server is down or busy.
• Your SIM card is either incompatible or not properly inserted.
• Your iPhone 16 may have a software glitch or bug.
• Your iPhone 16 is locked by an activation lock or a screen passcode.
• You might see a message like "This iPhone is Linked to an Apple ID" or "Enter the Apple ID and Password Used to Set Up This iPhone."

Part 3: Solutions to Fix Unable to Activate iPhone 16 Issues

Solution 1: Wait and Try Again

Sometimes, the activation server may be busy or down due to high traffic or maintenance. In such cases, waiting a few minutes or hours and attempting again later might help. You might see a message like "Activation Server Cannot Be Reached" or "Activation Server Is Temporarily Unavailable."

Solution 2: Check Apple System Status Page

To verify the status of the activation server, visit the Apple System Status Page. A green dot next to "iOS Device Activation" indicates a functional server, while a yellow or red dot indicates issues or outages.

Solution 3: Check Network Connection

Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network for your iPhone 16's activation. Check your connection by visiting a website in Safari. If it isn’t working how to fix iPhone 16 unable to activate, try switching networks, adjusting Airplane Mode, or resetting your network settings via Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Solution 4: Force Restart

You can force restart your iPhone 16 to resolve minor glitches preventing activation. Each model has a specific method for this:

iPhone 8 or Later: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 7, 6, or iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until you see the Apple logo.

Solution 5: Check SIM Card

If your SIM card is damaged or improperly placed, it may not be compatible with your iPhone 16. To resolve this iPhone 16 is not activated, remove the SIM card, check for any defects, and try using it in another phone or with a different SIM card.

Solution 6: Reactivate iPhone with iTunes or Finder

You can reactivate your iPhone using Finder or iTunes. You’ll need a computer and a USB cable. Follow these steps to fix the unable to activate iPhone 16 issue:

Step 1: Download and install the latest version of iTunes on your computer.

Step 2: Power off your iPhone and connect it to your PC using a USB cable.

Step 3: Turn on your iPhone and open iTunes.

Step 4: When iTunes recognizes your iPhone, a box will prompt you to "Activate your iPhone."

Step 5: Click Continue and enter your Apple ID and passcode to begin activation.

Solution 7: Call Your Carrier or Contact Apple for Help

You might need to seek assistance from Apple or your carrier. If they could not activate iPhone 16, the iPhone itself may have a fault preventing activation. If it’s under warranty, Apple will assist or replace the device if there’s a problem.

Part 4: Ultimate Way to Fix Unable to Activate iPhone 16 without Passcode and Email

Fortunately, you can use Tenorshare 4uKey to unlock your iPhone without needing an Apple ID. This tool allows you to easily disable Find My iPhone. It is straightforward and secure. Your device can be activated without a SIM card or Apple ID.

How to fix unable to activate iPhone 16:

Step 1: Download Tenorshare 4uKey and select “Start to Remove.”

Step 2: Connect your device to the computer. Click "Start" to skip the activation page. After reading the agreement, click Next.

Step 3: Tenorshare 4uKey will download a jailbreak tool for your iPhone, wait a few seconds, and then create a USB that erases all data on the USB.

Step 4: After creating the tool, follow the detailed tutorial to jailbreak your iPhone. Once jailbroken, restart your computer, run Tenorshare 4uKey, confirm device information, and click "Start."

Step 5: Congratulations! You have resolved the unable to activate issue on your iPhone.

Part 5: Bonus Tip: Professional Way to Fix Various Types of Lock Screen for iPhone 16

Tenorshare 4uKey is an excellent solution for iPhone 16 users facing lock screen problems. This user-friendly software can unlock your iPhone, reset your password, and bypass various types of lock screens with just a few clicks, all without any data loss.

Here how to fix iPhone 16 unable to activate:

Step 1: Start Tenorshare 4uKey, connect your iPhone to the computer, and click Start and Next on the screen.

Step 2: Download and save the firmware package. Select a file location and click the "Download" button.

Step 3: Click "Start Remove" to begin removing the lock screen passcode.

Step 4: Wait for the unlocking process to complete.

Part 6: FAQs about Fix Unable to Activate iPhone 16

Q1: Why Can't I Activate My iPhone after the iOS 18 Update?

After installing iOS 18, various issues, such as network problems, server issues, SIM card compatibility, or software bugs, may prevent your iPhone 16 from being activated.

Q2: What Does It Mean to Activate Your iPhone 16?

Activating your iPhone 16 means verifying your device with Apple and your carrier and setting it up for the first time. Activation is necessary to use your iPhone 16 and access its features, services, and applications.

Final Words

This article has presented various methods to resolve the "Unable to activate iPhone 16" issue, allowing you to regain access to your device and enjoy its features. If you continue to face difficulties, we recommend using Tenorshare 4uKey to bypass the Activation Lock and regain access to your iPhone.