How do you set up a new iPhone 16 Pro for the first time?
Answer
Complete Quick Start or Set Up Manually, then sign in with your Apple ID. If you see Access Not Authorized, stay on Wi-Fi, retry activation, and use the Apple ID that owns the device.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not erase or mail the old phone until the new iPhone is activated and trade-in requirements are confirmed.
Follow these steps
Start setup on Wi-Fi
Power on the iPhone 16 Pro, choose language and region, then connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network when asked. Stay on that network through activation.
You should see: The phone shows Quick Start or setup options without a network error.
Choose Quick Start or Set Up Manually
If you have the old iPhone nearby, use Quick Start and keep both phones close. If transfer stalls, tap Set Up Manually and continue without the old phone for now.
You should see: You reach the Apple ID sign-in or Face ID setup screens.
Sign in with the correct Apple ID
Sign in with the Apple ID that should own the new phone. If Access Not Authorized appears, confirm Wi-Fi, wait a few minutes, and retry the same Apple ID.
You should see: Activation completes and you can continue creating a passcode.
Finish carrier activation
Insert the SIM or follow eSIM transfer prompts from your carrier. After cellular service appears, complete any trade-in app steps for the old phone before the deadline.
You should see: The new iPhone has cellular service and trade-in instructions can be completed.
Restore data later if needed
If you skipped Quick Start, restore from an iCloud backup later in Apps & Data, or use a cable transfer when you have more time.
You should see: Apps and data restore without blocking basic phone use.
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Extra tips
What to look for: The iPhone 16 Pro is on the Hello or setup screens, transfer stalls, or a message such as Access Not Authorized appears during activation.
Before you change anything: Charge both phones and keep them near Wi-Fi. Know the Apple ID that should own the new iPhone. Have your carrier account PIN ready if asked to activate the line. Do not erase the old phone until the new one is activated and data has transferred.