Apple family share standalone vs numbershare cellular

i am attempting to set up an Apple Watch for my child using the family share setting. When I choose to setup cellular, it gives me the option to use a standalone phone number or number share. I cannot find any information about how this affects information appearing on the watch. I understand family share uses Apple id to route sms messages and other items to the specific user. But if I set up cellular as numbershare on the Apple Watch will my child receive my phone calls? What are the pros and cons for standalone vs numbershare when setting up an Apple watch for a child?

Posted on Feb 22, 2024 6:28 PM

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Posted on Feb 22, 2024 7:23 PM

NumberShare (assuming you are referring to the Verizon feature) is not what you want if you are trying to set the watch up for a family member that does not have their own iPhone. Doing so would have your child receive your phone calls and texts because it is simply you sharing your cellular line with the watch (allowing you to leave your phone at home and still have access via your watch). You have to follow the instructions for Family Setup and get a “standalone” plan for your child.


Set up Apple Watch for a family member - Apple Support


Again, I’m assuming you are referring to Verizon’s feature but this would be true with other carriers also that may use the same NumberShare name.


https://www.verizon.com/support/knowledge-base-234270/





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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 22, 2024 7:23 PM in response to Webstah30

NumberShare (assuming you are referring to the Verizon feature) is not what you want if you are trying to set the watch up for a family member that does not have their own iPhone. Doing so would have your child receive your phone calls and texts because it is simply you sharing your cellular line with the watch (allowing you to leave your phone at home and still have access via your watch). You have to follow the instructions for Family Setup and get a “standalone” plan for your child.


Set up Apple Watch for a family member - Apple Support


Again, I’m assuming you are referring to Verizon’s feature but this would be true with other carriers also that may use the same NumberShare name.


https://www.verizon.com/support/knowledge-base-234270/





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Apple family share standalone vs numbershare cellular

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