

(If you run into a similar problem, try deactivating the watch's data plan, and then reactivating and rebooting. I experienced some launch-weekend jitters with phone call reliability, where calls on the watch over LTE would fail, but those issues seem to have been resolved. A customer service agent couldn't help me figure out the problem over the phone, so I eventually paired the device to an Apple-provided iPhone 8 on T-Mobile to test it out. I ran into a myriad of issues when trying to activate the watch on my AT&T plan. I eventually got my watch activated on AT&T's network, but it took a trip to my nearby AT&T store and the help of five customer service reps - four in-store and one over the phone - more than an hour to navigate the complicated setup process. But then I got to the part where I had to activate the watch's cellular connectivity. The Series 3 pairs to your iPhone the same way past generations did, with a dynamic image on the watch face that you scan with your iPhone camera. Apple Watch Series 3 activation: A frustrating process Those floated down to earth as soon as I unboxed the device. All that, and it can't even last a full day on its own.īut even though I knew the watch couldn't replace my iPhone, I still had high hopes. That disappointment sinks in after you add up the costs - $399 for the 38-millimeter model or $429 for the 42-mm version, and then an extra $10 on your monthly cellphone bill so that the watch can draw from your data bucket. If you're expecting to leave your phone for extended periods of time and use the watch to handle all your tasks, you will be disappointed. If your current carrier does not support Apple Watch, cellular functionality won’t work until support is provided.The LTE Apple Watch Series 3 is designed to bridge that gap, but that's it. Cellular Carrier SupportĬonnecting Apple Watch to a cellular network requires the same carrier as your iPhone, and we’re adding carriers all the time. It gives you the freedom to send and receive text messages, answer phone calls, and even receive notifications when you don’t have your iPhone with you. GPS + CellularĪpple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) has all the same features, as well as built-in cellular. The built-in GPS works independently of your iPhone for distance, pace, and route mapping in workouts. What’s the difference between GPS and GPS + Cellular? GPSĪpple Watch Series 3 (GPS) lets you send and receive text messages, answer phone calls, and receive notifications when it’s connected to your iPhone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Contact your service provider for more details. Wireless service plan required for cellular service.

Roaming is not available outside your carrier network coverage area. Cellular is not available with all service providers. Apple Watch and iPhone service provider must be the same. Band with 42mm case fits 140–210mm wrists.Īpple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) requires an iPhone 6 or later with iOS 11 or later.
