AppleWatch5 (GPS Cellular) USA version not supported in SA.

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Level 1

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AppleWatch5 (GPS Cellular) USA version not supported in SA.

I have an AppleWatch5 (GPS + Cellular) from the USA. Understanding that when the Cellular functionality in South Africa is enabled the watch will be capable to utilise this function.

Recently when our local cellular provider enabled the e-sim functionality though, I was informed that the cellular function of the US version of the Apple Watch 5 does not work in SA. The USA radio frequency is not supported here.

Now I am stuck with a premium product with a premium price, but am unable to use it to its full capabilities.

Is there any assistance or advice in this regard?

Apple Watch

Posted on Jul 22, 2020 3:33 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Phil0124

Community+ 2024

Level 10

206,195 points

Jul 22, 2020 8:48 AM in response to JannieL69

Unless SA carriers support the frequencies used in North America, your only option is to sell it and buy one that will work in SA.

Apple's supported carrier list does not yet feature any carriers from South Africa.

But yes, Apple Watches are region specific. There is no guarantee even when there are supported carriers in SA for Apple Watch, that the North American watch will work in SA.

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Answer 2

JannieL69 Author

Level 1

4 points

Jul 22, 2020 11:47 AM in response to JannieL69

Thanks for the replies!

Is there a specific support email address for Apple to contact them directly for possible assistance?

On Apple Watch Support I only see two options: "Bring in for repairs" or "Call us" neither of which is helpful in this case.

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Answer 3

Randy-12

Level 6

19,785 points

Jul 22, 2020 8:44 AM in response to JannieL69

I'm not seeing SA as a country that supports the Apple Watch Cellular version as of yet.

https://support.apple.com/en-ca/HT207578

https://www.apple.com/watch/cellular/

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Answer 4

Jul 22, 2020 12:37 PM in response to JannieL69

No. There is no support email as that would get spammed beyond usability very quickly.

Call or Chat, if the option is available when going through the support site: Get Support - Apple.com

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AppleWatch5 (GPS Cellular) USA version not supported in SA.

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