ATT wasn't even competent enough to handle the surge in new activations. I think this is ridiculous considering they KNEW every single iPhone they order will be sold and activated...they should have prepared and increased their system capacity.
totally irresponsible in my view and if Verizon wasn't too stuck up and accepted the iPhone deal...i bet there wouldn't be any hickups like you're seeing with ATT
Apple iPhone activation complaints continue - CNN.com