Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Setting up iMessage for a kid who doen't have their own phone number/data plan.

Why can't a parent with a family sharing account use a parent's phone number to activate iMessage for their kid's device? We each have our own apple ID and we have had no problem setting the kids' devices up for iMessage in the past, but after spending an hour on the phone with customer service this morning, we eventually learned that you can no longer activate iMessage without an activated phone number specific to that phone. That seems ridiculous to me. Why can't the parent's number be used to activate iMessage?


Does anyone know a work-around for this? I don't want a data plan for my child-- just want to be able to message with them when needed.


Thanks!

Posted on Jul 16, 2020 8:51 AM

Reply
5 replies
Sort By: 

Jul 16, 2020 8:58 AM in response to celena180

Does your kid has an iPhone?

Does kid has an Apple ID?

If you do, put in the SIM card to active the iPhone with kid's Apple ID.

After activation and setup, remove the SIM card.

They can then use iMessage as long as they have Wi-Fi connection and using their Apple ID (e-mail address).

Reply

Jul 16, 2020 9:07 AM in response to ckuan

Thank you Ckuan,


My child does have an iPhone and AppleID. Do you mean that I should put the SIM card from my phone (the one with service) in his phone just to activate and then take it back? Will this disrupt my phone or appleID in any way?

Reply

Jul 16, 2020 9:15 AM in response to celena180

Yes to activate and setup the iPhone with kid's Apple ID, after that take it out/back to your iPhone.

No.


Note without a valid SIM, kid cannot make/receive calls.

Kid's can do iMessage and FaceTime if connect to Wi-Fi using kid's Apple ID but not phone number.

Note: Just like an iPod touch.

Reply

Setting up iMessage for a kid who doen't have their own phone number/data plan.

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.