Level 1

9 points

iMessage and FaceTime without carrier service

Is it possible to use iMessage and FaceTime on an iPhone without activating any carrier service? In other words, I would like to use the iPhone over WiFi only, similar to how an iPod works. Hoping to let my child use an older iPhone without adding that phone to cellular service.

iPhone 6s

Posted on Nov 30, 2020 1:37 PM

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3 replies

Level 1

9 points

Nov 30, 2020 1:42 PM in response to sberman

What does it mean to “activate the iPhone”? Something I can do in settings or do I have to call Apple or a cellular carrier?

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Level 10

272,006 points

Nov 30, 2020 1:45 PM in response to deeV78

See especially step 3 here.

Of course, we don't know what state your iPhone is left in ... how long ago you used it, what happened since, etc.

Set up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

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Level 10

272,006 points

Nov 30, 2020 1:40 PM in response to deeV78

You will have to activate the iPhone, which requires a SIM card. Once activated, cellular service is not required to use either iMessage or FaceTime.

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iMessage and FaceTime without carrier service

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