iphone 5
how i fix the issue with my i message not working, its saying waiting for activation i tried the reset settings, the on/off messaging?
iPhone 5, iOS 8.4.1
User profile for user:
jeremy_v
User level:
Community Specialist
Hi MasterMalice,
Thanks for participating in the Apple Support Communities.
It seems like iMessage says waiting for activation on your iPhone. You've tried some good troubleshooting steps including resetting the settings and turning iMessage off and on.
Be sure to try all of the steps below from If you get an error when trying to activate iMessage or FaceTime. Note that the article suggests turning both iMessage and FaceTime off and on. If you've tried all of these steps including contacting your carrier, see the link to contact Apple Support for more help.
Check your device settings
- Make sure that you’re connected to a cellular data or Wi-Fi network. If you're using an iPhone, you'll need SMS messaging to activate your phone number with iMessage and FaceTime. Depending on your carrier, you might be charged for this SMS.
- Go to Settings > General > Date & Time and make sure that you've set up your time zone correctly.
Turn off iMessage and FaceTime and restart
- Go to Settings > Messages and turn off iMessage.
- Go to Settings > FaceTime and turn off FaceTime.
- Restart your device.
- Turn iMessage and FaceTime back on.
Still not activated after a day?
It might take up to 24 hours to activate iMessage and FaceTime. If you've waited more than 24 hours, follow these steps:
- Make sure that your device has the latest version of iOS.
- If you're using an iPhone, contact your carrier to make sure that you can receive SMS messages.
- Contact Apple Support.
All the best.