I just upgraded to the iPhone 17 Pro, and when I went to set it up, I was told my phone number would transfer automatically. However, after I unboxed it and started the setup, I had to manually press a button to transfer my number. When I did, I got an error saying I needed to be near my old phone. I then tried to log into my AT&T account, but I couldn't get the security code because I don't have my old phone anymore. This feels super frustrating!
4 Answers
I had a similar issue with one of my numbers not transferring. I found that trying again through the Cellular settings on my new phone did the trick after the initial setup failure.
If you're using eSIM, the process can be a bit tricky. You can log into your online account, and look for an option to request a new SIM or activate a new device. This should help generate a QR code for your new phone as well.
It sounds frustrating, but if you don't have your old phone, it complicates the transfer. This is actually a security measure to prevent fraud. Your best bet is to reach out to AT&T for help with this situation.
This isn't really an Apple issue. You'll need to contact AT&T directly about the number transfer. They might be able to help you sort it out.
But it is kind of Apple's fault for not completing the transfer before they wiped your old device.