How to Fix iPhone Stuck on Cellular Setup Complete?

Setting up a new iPhone is usually a seamless and exciting experience. However, some users may encounter an issue where their iPhone gets stuck on the “Cellular Setup Complete” screen. This problem can prevent you from fully activating your device, making it frustrating and inconvenient. This guide will explore why your iPhone might get stuck during the cellular setup process and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve the issue.
fix iphone stuck on cellular setup complete

1. Why Is My New iPhone Stuck on Cellular Setup Complete?

Several factors can contribute to your iPhone becoming stuck during the cellular setup process. Below are some common reasons:

  • Carrier Issues
Your iPhone may have trouble connecting to your carrier’s network due to SIM card problems, an inactive SIM, or carrier settings not being updated.
  • Software Bugs
Bugs in iOS can interfere with the setup process, particularly if you’re using a beta version or haven’t updated to the latest software.
  • Network Connectivity Problems
Weak or unstable internet connections during setup may disrupt communication with Apple’s activation servers.
  • Activation Server Issues
Temporary outages or delays on Apple’s activation servers can also cause this problem.
  • Corrupt System Files
If the iPhone’s system files are corrupted, it can result in setup errors, including getting stuck on the “Cellular Setup Complete” screen.

Understanding these causes can help in identifying the right solution to fix the issue.

2. How to Fix iPhone Stuck on Cellular Setup Complete?

Attempt these remedies if you find that your iPhone is stuck on the “Cellular Setup Complete” screen:

2.1 Check Your SIM Card

  • Make sure your device has the SIM card inserted correctly.
  • Try removing and reinserting the SIM card to see if this resolves the issue.
  • Test the SIM card in another phone to confirm it’s functioning correctly.
check iphone sim card

2.2 Restart Your iPhone

  • Perform a simple restart:
    • If your iPhone has Face ID, you can access the power slider by pressing and holding the Side button and either Volume button.
    • For iPhones equipped with a Home button, press and hold the Top (or Side) button.
  • Slide your iPhone off, then wait a few seconds before turning it back on.
restart iphone

2.3 Update Carrier Settings

  • Go to Settings > General > About.
  • A prompt will show up if there is a carrier settings update available; Follow the instructions to update.
iphone update carrier settings

2.4 Reset Network Settings

  • Problems with cellular connection may be resolved by resetting the network settings. By navigating to the following menu: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings, you can clear your network settings.
  • Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, so reconnect to Wi-Fi afterward.
iPhone Reset Network Settings

2.5 Restore Your iPhone Using iTunes/Finder

  • If the issue persists, try restoring your device: Connect your iPhone to a computer using a Lightning cable > Open iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later) > Select your iPhone, click Restore iPhone, and follow the prompts.
  • Ensure you back up your data before restoring, as this will erase everything on the device.
itunes restore iphone

3. Advanced Fix for iPhone Stuck on Cellular Setup Complete with AimerLab FixMate

When standard troubleshooting methods fail, an advanced repair tool like AimerLab FixMate can resolve the issue. FixMate is a powerful iOS repair software designed to fix various iPhone problems, including setup issues, with minimal effort and no data loss.

Key Features of AimerLab FixMate:

  • Fixes over 200 iOS system issues, such as setup errors, stuck screens, and boot loops.
  • Supports the most recent iOS upgrades as well as all iOS devices and versions.
  • Offers both Standard Mode (no data loss) and Deep Mode (erases data).
  • User-friendly interface with step-by-step instructions.

Here is the example using AimerLab FixMate to Fix iPhone 16 Stuck on Cellular Setup Complete:

Step 1: CHoose your OS, then download FixMate and install it on your computer.


Step 2: Connect your iPhone to computer, launch FixMate, and then hit the “Start” button and choose Standard Repair to resolve the problem without erasing any data.
FixMate Choose Standard Repair
Step 3: FixMate will automatically detect your iPhone model and suggest the appropriate firmware, click Repair to get the firmware package.

choose ios 18 firmware version
Step 4: Once the firmware is downloaded, click Start Repair to begin fixing your iPhone and wait for the process to complete.

Standard Repair in Process
Step 5: Your iPhone will restart and should now function normally; Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up your iPhone.
iphone 15 repair complete

4. Conclusion

An iPhone stuck on the “Cellular Setup Complete” screen can disrupt your device setup process, but several solutions can address this issue. Start with basic troubleshooting methods, such as checking your SIM card, updating carrier settings, or resetting network settings. If these steps don’t resolve the problem, advanced tools like AimerLab FixMate offer an efficient and reliable solution.

FixMate is particularly effective for fixing stubborn iOS issues without requiring technical expertise. With its user-friendly interface and robust repair capabilities, FixMate is the ultimate tool to get your iPhone up and running smoothly.

Download AimerLab FixMate today to fix your iPhone issues quickly and hassle-free.