If I get an Apple Watch can I connect my iPhone to it when it’s on O2
Do I get GPS or can I get GPS + Cellular
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Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) models
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) requires an iPhone 6 or newer with the latest version of iOS 11.x.
It is not locked to any specific carrier and has a built-in eSIM that copies information from the iPhone's SIM card.
The built-in cellular features require a carrier plan for your iPhone that specifically includes support for Apple Watch, including the carrier activating the device on the plan.
If you do not wish to sign up with EE for your iPhone and Apple Watch service plan, then you cannot currently use the built-in cellular feature with O2 or any other UK network.
However, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) can still be paired, set up and used for other features - including making and receiving calls in conjunction with the paired iPhone - whilst skipping the steps to activate cellular. The built-in cellular feature can then be enabled later, if and when you are using a compatible service plan on your iPhone, whether from EE or another UK carrier in due course.
You may wish to contact O2 to ask about their plans for supporting Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular). You can also monitor this page for further carriers being added over time:
Apple Watch - Carriers - Apple
Series 3 GPS-only models and all other Apple Watch models
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) and all other Apple Watch models can be used in conjunction with a compatible iPhone model and a service plan for the iPhone from any carrier.
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) and all other models (besides Series 3 (GPS + Cellular)) require an iPhone 5s or newer with the latest version of iOS 11.x.
Using away from your iPhone
Functions that are available on your Apple Watch when it is away from your iPhone depend on various factors including:
- Your Apple Watch model:
- The features of your carrier service plan:
- The type of connectivity that is available to your Apple Watch and/or iPhone at the time:
About Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular on your Apple Watch - Apple Support
Features that are available in different cases are detailed here, including within footnote #2:
How to use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby - Apple Support
More information: