do you have to use cellular with Apple Watch 3
Does one have to use the cellular service with the Apple Watch 3. I realize you use some functionality, but does it work with WiFi the way Apple Watch 2 does?
Apple Watch Series 3
Question marked as
Top-ranking reply
Hi
No, you don't.
There are two different versions of Apple Watch Series 3:
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS)
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) models do not have built-in cellular capabilities. Any data consumed by Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS) is consumed either via the paired iPhone (including Wi-Fi and cellular data) or via a direct connection between the watch and a compatible Wi-Fi network (when the watch cannot connect to the paired iPhone via Bluetooth).
A separate cellular plan for the Apple Watch is not required.
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular)
In respect of data usage, Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) also always first tries to use the Bluetooth connection to your iPhone (which does not require a separate plan for the watch) or, in the absence of that, any available connection to a compatible Wi-Fi network.
If neither of those is available, then Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) has a built-in cellular capability that, under certain circumstances, can enable certain features, which are not available on GPS-only models, to remain available when the watch is used without the iPhone nearby.
In order to be able to use the built-in cellular feature, you would require a carrier service plan for your iPhone that specifically includes support for the Apple Watch, including the carrier first activating the device on the plan:
- Set up and use cellular on Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) - Apple Support
- Use Apple Watch with a cellular network—Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) only
An activation fee and ongoing monthly cost may apply - contact your carrier for details:
Apple Watch - Carriers - Apple
Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) can also be used without enabling the built-in cellular feature, in which case it functions like a GPS-only model and can be used in conjunction with a service plan for iPhone from any carrier, with no need to activate the watch on the plan.
Other differences between Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) models and (GPS) models include that (GPS + Cellular) models:
- Have double the storage capacity of GPS-only models.
- Have a ceramic back (instead of a composite back).
- Are compatible with Apple's AirPower wireless charging mat, which is due to be released next year:
- Include options for Stainless Steel and Space Black Stainless Steel cases (all GPS-only models are aluminium).
- Stainless Steel and Ceramic (Edition) case models have a sapphire crystal, which is more scratch resistant than Ion-X Glass.
Both
The functions that are available on your Apple Watch when it is away from your iPhone depend on various factors including:
- Your Apple Watch model - Series 3 (GPS) vs Series 3 (GPS + Cellular):
- The features of your carrier service plan:
- The type of connectivity that is available to your Apple Watch at the time:
About Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular on your Apple Watch - Apple Support
Features and requirements that apply under various circumstances are detailed here, including within the footnotes:
How to use your Apple Watch without your iPhone nearby - Apple Support