You can do a lot with your watch without the paired iPhone: The watch does not always need a network connection. See this help page: https://help.apple.com/watch/#/apd0443fb403
Only, if you want to use the watch for tasks that require a network connection, ythe cellular connection of the iPhone or a known Wi-Fi will be used.
Use Apple Watch without its paired iPhone
Use Apple Watch without iPhone nearby. Although you need your iPhone to do many things with Apple Watch, there are things you can do when you don’t have your iPhone with you or when it’s turned off:
- Play music from a synced playlist
- Use the watch, world clock, alarms, timer, and the stopwatch
- Track your activity
- Track workouts
- See your current heart rate
- Display photos from synced photo albums
- Make purchases with Apple Pay
- Use the Breathe app
- Set and respond to reminders
Note: Apple Watch Series 2 has a built-in GPS that allows you to get more accurate distance and speed information during an outdoor workout without your paired iPhone.
If Apple Watch is connected to Wi-Fi.
When Apple Watch is in range of a Wi-Fi network that iPhone has connected to before, you see
in the status bar. You can still do the following (even if iPhone is turned off):
- Send and receive messages via iMessage
- Make and receive phone calls (if you have Wi-Fi calling enabled and you’re within range of a Wi-Fi network that your iPhone has connected to before)
- Check current weather conditions
- Track your stocks
- Control your home
- Use third-party apps that support Wi-Fi connectivity
Apple Watch uses Bluetooth® wireless technology to connect to its paired iPhone and uses the iPhone for many wireless functions. Apple Watch can’t configure Wi-Fi networks on its own, but it can connect to Wi-Fi networks you’ve set up or connected to using the paired iPhone. For more information, see the Apple Support article About Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on Apple Watch.
Hi
Apple Watch does not have built-in cellular capability, so does not require a separate plan or charge.
Any calls placed, text messages sent and/or cellular data used by Apple Watch are provided via the paired iPhone, so are charged as part of your iPhone's plan and bill.
Whether or not it will cost you any more monthly depends on your usage.
does apple watch go on monthly bill?
