GPS and Cellular on Watch Series 3

Question

Level 1

8 points

GPS and Cellular on Watch Series 3

Hi All.

I have a question relating to the cellular and GPS use in the new Series 3 Watch.

If I go for a run and have the cellular turned on what is actually being used to track the run? Is it the cellular, or the in-built GPS? If I turn off cellular will the watch still use GPS to track?

I assume for either to work I need to have location services turned on?

Apple Watch Series 3, iOS 11

Posted on Nov 5, 2017 9:21 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Jonathan UK

Level 10

164,015 points

Nov 6, 2017 12:47 AM in response to JHPSL

Hi

When recording an Outdoor Run via the Workout app, Apple Watch Series 3 uses built-in GPS to track your location, including if the cellular capability is turned off.

In order to ensure that this feature is enabled, check that the relevant settings are enabled:

On your iPhone, go to: Settings > Privacy > Location Services.
Check that Location Services (the main setting at the top) is turned on.
In the list of apps beneath, check that Apple Watch Workout is set to While Using.
Also enable options under System Services including Motion Calibration & Distance, Wi-Fi Networking and Mobile Network Search.

Reply

Answer 2

JHPSL Author

Level 1

8 points

Nov 6, 2017 8:52 PM in response to Jonathan UK

Thank you for the reply Jonathan.

I tested it out and yes the GPS does work if the cellular is switched off.

Are you able to confirm what the watch uses to track if cellular is turned on? Is it the GPS or the cellular signal?

Reply