Temporary iPhone X activation problems occur as AT&T, Verizon servers get slammed [u]

Some users with a new iPhone X are being stymied by error messages when trying to activate the device, caused by massive load on AT&T and Verizon's servers.

Scattered reports on social media venues note the issues, with it being seen by AppleInsider staffers as well. The connectivity problem manifests as either an error exhorting users to try again, or a persistent screen saying that it may take a few minutes to activate the phone.

Should the user get the former error, Apple recommends hitting Try Again when it is convenient for the user to do so, until the device is activated. A stuck activation screen may necessitate a reboot of the device by holding the power button on the right and swiping to shut down.

AppleInsider has contacted sources familiar with the matter within AT&T, Verizon, and Apple outside the customer service representative chain but not authorized to speak on behalf of the company. All three sources told us that the fault is on the carrier side, and should clear up over time.

While originally for a different reason, long-time iPhone users from the original iPhone through the iPhone 4 were subject to multi-hour long wait periods before a phone was activated and ready to use.

Update: It appears that the activation problems have cleared up, as expected.