I have an unlocked iPhone 15 Plus that's not connected to any network and has no physical SIM card. I want to use it primarily for editing and app downloads, but I'm running into an error when trying to log into my Apple account. It keeps telling me 'Verification Failed - Your identity couldn't be verified. Check your network connection and try again.' Since I should be able to use this phone like an iPad, where logging into an Apple account doesn't require cellular service, I'm a bit frustrated that it's not working the way I expected. Is there a way to make this phone function properly without being on a cellular network?
3 Answers
You can totally use the iPhone like an iPod as long as it’s on Wi-Fi. Just remember to go into the settings app to log in instead of during initial setup—sometimes that helps. Also, check your phone's software version; it might need an update.
First off, are you connected to a good Wi-Fi network? You need a valid Wi-Fi connection for logging into your Apple account. I’ve used my old iPhone for similar purposes, and it works just fine once connected! Just ignore the cellular not connected message when it boots up.
Yes, I am connected to Wi-Fi!
Make sure to turn off cellular services to stop the phone from searching for a signal all the time—it'll save your battery life. But keep in mind, for app downloads, you’ll need that Wi-Fi connection.
I did that, but unfortunately, it didn’t solve the issue.
I already set it up and I’m trying through settings. It’s on iOS 26.0.1, but it says it can’t check for an update.