While iMessage typically activates smoothly and instantly, you may encounter difficulties activating iMessage, especially after transferring your phone number to Cape. This issue is usually related to iMessage or Apple systems and can occur with any carrier. Below are steps you can try to help resolve the issue.

Steps to Try to Fix iMessage Activation Issues

1. Wait for Activation to Complete

• iMessage activation can sometimes take up to 30 minutes after adding your number. Be patient and check back periodically.

2. Cancel and Restart iMessage Activation

• Go to Settings → Messages → Send & Receive.
  • On iOS 18+: Settings → Apps → Messages → Send & Receive.
• If you see a spinning gear next to your phone number, tap the gear to cancel the activation.
• Tap your phone number again to re-initiate the activation process.

3. Verify Your Phone Number in Settings

• Go to Settings → Phone → My Number.
  • On iOS 18+: Settings → Apps → Phone → My Number
• Ensure that your number is listed and matches the number in your Cape app.
• If the My Number field is blank:
  • Enter your number, starting with +1 (e.g., +11234567890).
  • Select Save and then tap the Back Arrow. After saving, restart your phone

4. Unselect Old Numbers from iMessage

• Navigate to Settings → Messages → Send & Receive.
  • On iOS 18+: Settings → Apps → Messages → Send & Receive.
• Under You Can Be Reached At, unselect your old number.
• Select your Cape number to ensure only the correct number is being used for iMessage and FaceTime.

5. Reset Network Settings

• Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings.
• Important: This will erase your saved Wi-Fi passwords, so make sure you have them handy.

6. Restart your iPhone

• Power off your device, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on. 
• After restarting, check your iMessage settings. 
  • Navigate to Settings → Messages → Send & Receive.
    • On iOS 18+: Settings → Apps → Messages → Send & Receive.

7. Contact Apple Support

• If the issue persists after trying the above steps, it may require Apple’s intervention. Visit the Apple Support website or contact Apple directly for further assistance.