Error "Failed to activate device" when I try to set up my new iMac

I’m seeing this all over Redit with the same problem "failed to activate device”. People on Redit are talking about an outage of the Apple Activation server. So you'll probably have to wait a bit and try again later

gla35 wrote:

I just bought an iMac and need help getting started. I get a message "Failed to activate device"

If this is a new iMac that you just opened, you should call Apple at > 1-800-MY-APPLE (800-692-7753) for help.

If this is a used or open box iMac that you bought from a third-party, you should take or send it back for a refund.