iMessage 'Waiting for Activation' Error

Apple users have access to the iMessage service. It is a convenient way to communicate with other Apple users through instant messages or even SMS. Under certain circumstances, however, users may encounter an error message stating that iMessage is 'Waiting for Activation.' Indeed, the feature cannot be used if it hasn't been activated before that.

Before we proceed, here a couple of quick tips that oftentimes can resolve the issue almost immediately. 

1. Check that your cellular data or Wi-Fi network is working properly. You need a stable Internet connection for the iMessage service to reach Apple's servers.  
2. Make sure that the Date & Time format is in the correct format. Open 'Settings,' go to 'General,' and then 'Date & Time.' Make sure that the toggle for the 'Set Automatically' option is switched on (green).
3. Disable iMessage and restart the device. Open 'Settings,' scroll down to 'Messages' and tap on it, locate 'iMessage 'and disable it. Now, restart your device, turn iMessage back on and see if the error has disappeared. 

If the 'Waiting for Activation' error is still present after 24 hours, then try the following solutions:

Use Airplane Mode

1. Open 'Settings.'
2. Go to 'Messages.'
3. Locate 'iMessage' and disable it.
4. Turn on Airplane Mode from 'Settings.'
5. Turn on your Wi-Fi connection manually as Airplane Mode will have disabled it.
6. Enable 'iMessage.'
7. Turn Airplane Mode off. 
8. If you see a notification stating 'Your carrier may charge for SMS,' tap on 'OK.'
9. Wait for a couple of minutes and try to use iMessage once more. 

Check for Carrier Settings Update

While individual users cannot view or modify their carrier settings, they can still update them manually if such an update is available. 

1. Open your device settings.
2. Go to 'General.'
3. Select 'About.'
4. If you are presented with a pop-up notification stating 'Network Provider Settings Update,' select 'Update.' If the carrier settings have already been updated, instead of 'Update' you will see an 'OK' button.