Cannot activate iphone after updating iOS

[nomadsoul]

I recently updated iOS but yet again, it did not correctly update my iphone and I had to restore it to factory settings, losing everything on it. But, I now get an error message - "Your iPhone could not be activated because the activation server cannot be reached. Try connecting your iPhone to iTunes to activate it, or try again in a few minutes."

It then suggests contacting Apple Support, which I've done, although they weren't particularly helpful. I've tried rebooting my laptop, dsconnecting and reconnecting my iPhone and I've gone through the restore process again. The SIM card is in my phone - I've taken it out and put it back in. I'm now at my wits end. iOS causes problems EVERY time. I know that's an Apple issue but I'm concerned that the activation is more related to the phone and O2. 

Anyone else had this problem?

[Cleoriff]

@nomadsoul

Not me as I haven't got an iphone. However @adamtemp64 @MI5 and @Anonymous(to name but three) have.

I would suggest a visit to your nearest Apple store if they can't help?

Best of luck and welcome to the forum

[MI5]

Certainly sounds like a phone problem as it can't see a data connection.
Make sure you're logged on to a good WiFi signal or in a good 4g area.

[nomadsoul]

Thanks guys. I'm on WiFi and I sit right next to the router (I'm using the same WiFi connection to use this website right now). My phone shows a full mobile signal and a full WiFi signal. It's so frustrating. I'm guessing it's an Apple issue but was just curious about any connection issues with O2. 

My nearest Apple store is in London so looks like I'll be without a usable phone for some time until I can get in there. 

[MI5]

Try it with WiFi off?

[jonsie]

I think an Apple store is your best option no matter how much inconvenience its involved. If they can't sort the software out in site they will simply replace it for you  It's always best to make an appointment first 

https://www.apple.com/hk/en/retail/geniusbar/

[Anonymous]

If it can’t update properly then it’ll be an Apple issue. I’d recommend a Genius Bar appointment for possible repair or replacement seeing as this keeps happening. Don’t use O2 for a repair though

[Cleoriff]

@nomadsoul

Just check Apple store near you. I know you said London and although our nearest one is in Birmingham they do have smaller franchise stores who can do the same thing.

My son had a problem with his iPhone and we found a smaller store in Coleshill which ran the same diagnostic tests and actually fixed the issue. No cost as it was still under warranty.

[adamtemp64]

@nomadsoul Sorry been working did Apple get you to work through the steps here https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT201407 ?

[nomadsoul]

After seeing some of the replies on an Apple forum, it seems that it's a problem with the iPhone 7. One guy seems to think if you take it to a Genius Bar, they'll replace the phone for free - after all, it's Apple's fault. Others think they won't and you're left with an expensive paperweight! I think after paying over £800 for the damn thing, they'll be replacing it if they want me to leave quietly!! The phone was perfectly OK until I updated it. 

Thanks all for your inputs.