Benefits of cellular plans for smartwatches

If you’re considering buying a smartwatch, like the latest Apple Watch, as a gift to yourself or someone else, you’ll want to learn more about the benefits of cellular plans for smartwatches.

Enjoy your smartwatch to its fullest

In today's world, staying connected is more important than ever. We rely on our smartphones for everything from keeping in touch with friends and family to managing our daily tasks. But what about smartwatches? Many people wonder if smartwatches make a good holiday gift for themselves or a loved one and if they make a good gift for a kid, how to pair the smartwatch with a suitable plan, or even if they need a separate plan from their smartphone. Let's explore some common questions and concerns related to smartwatch plans and help you find the perfect plan to pair with a smartwatch from the Apple Watch Series or Samsung Watch.

A man checking advanced health monitoring smartwatch

Can I use Apple Watch GPS + Cellular without data plan?

In the realm of smartwatches, the Apple Watch GPS + Cellular, such as the Apple Watch Ultra2, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Series 9, definitely takes the lead as a powerful accessory that offers users versatile features. But if you're wondering whether you can skip adding a data plan, we recommend you think again. You can use the smartwatch without a data plan, but you may not want to because it may have some limitations.

Without a data plan, you'll still be able to use the GPS and other non-cellular features on your Apple Watch. However, you'll miss out on the full potential of this impressive gadget. Cellular features like making calls, sending texts, and streaming music are only accessible via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi® when connected to your iPhone.

To truly unleash the power of your Apple Watch GPS + Cellular, it's worth considering adding a compatible data plan from your wireless carrier. This way, you can experience the freedom of using your smartwatch independently from your iPhone and embrace the convenience of cellular connectivity even when your phone isn't nearby.

With the right plan in place, you'll be ready to enjoy the full range of features your Apple Watch has to offer!

Why do I need a plan for my smartwatch?

You may wonder why it's even necessary to have a plan for a smartwatch. Let's dive into why a dedicated plan is essential for getting the most out of your device.

Convenience on the go: One of the primary reasons to have a plan for your smartwatch is the ability to stay connected even when your phone isn't nearby. With a dedicated data plan, your smartwatch can independently make calls, send texts, and access the internet without relying on your phone's Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. Leaving your phone behind is especially convenient for those outdoorsy and sporty people. Whether going for a bike ride, or hitting the gym, having your phone with you is not always convenient or even wise. A smartphone is bulky and can also easily get lost or damaged. However, a smartwatch plan allows you to leave your phone behind without sacrificing connectivity, allowing you to stay in touch and access essential features directly from your wrist.

Enhanced features: A data plan for your smartwatch unlocks a range of advanced features, such as streaming music, receiving notifications, and using GPS navigation. With a dedicated plan, you can fully utilize these capabilities and enhance your overall smartwatch experience.

Emergency preparedness: In an emergency, having a smartwatch plan ensures you can quickly contact help even if you don't have your phone. This added layer of safety can be invaluable in critical situations.

Personalized experience: Many carriers offer tailored plans for smartwatches, ensuring you get the best value and features suited to your needs. By choosing a plan that matches your usage patterns, you can optimize your smartwatch experience while keeping costs in check.

Can you use a smartwatch as a cell phone? Do smartwatches have their own phone number?

Some smartwatches can function as standalone communication devices. Smartwatches with cellular or LTE capabilities can make calls, send texts, and access data without needing a paired smartphone nearby.

These LTE-enabled smartwatches connect to mobile networks, allowing you to stay connected even when your smartphone isn't within reach. To use a smartwatch as a cell phone, you'll generally need to add through your mobile carrier a separate line to your mobile plan for the watch, which will give it its own phone number.

On the other hand, some smartwatches rely solely on Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections to pair with your smartphone, so they don't have their own phone numbers. These smartwatches still boast many features and functionalities but require a nearby paired smartphone for tasks like making calls or sending texts.

If you're considering purchasing a smartwatch without a cell phone, consider some of the limitations you will likely face. While cellular smartwatches can perform many tasks independently, they may not provide a smartphone's full range of features and functionalities. For instance, app compatibility, screen size, and overall functionality could be more limited on a smartwatch than on a smartphone.