No SIM, how to get past setup

[NHGuy79]

I found an old iphone from my past, I think it's a iphone 2 or 3. Not sure of the iOS version either. I want to get past the initial setup so I can play around with it. I don't care about cell service.

I am stopped at "Activating your iPhone" as it doesn't have a SIM card. Is there a way past this?

 

[JML5150]

If its unlocked, iTunes should be able to get you past this. You might need to find an older version though.

 

[xanadome]

Activation needs to connect with Apple server. Thought you can do so via WiFi.

 

[doogald]

Activation needs to connect with Apple server. Thought you can do so via WiFi.

Without a SIM, the only way to activate for iMessage, FaceTime, etc., is with iTunes. That will only work if the phone isn't SIM-locked to a particular network, though.

Probably the best way, though, is to put an active SIM (such as from your current phone) in just to activate it, then put the SIM back in your normal phone.

See https://www.macworld.co.uk/how-to/activate-iphone-without-sim-3643294/