Is the Apple Watch Useful Without Cellular? Find Out Here!
What To Know
- The Apple Watch has a built-in clock and timer, so you can use it as a traditional watch.
- Since the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) has built-in cellular capabilities, the GPS + Cellular model typically has a shorter battery life than the GPS-only model.
- The GPS-only model of the Apple Watch Series 3 can still connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth and use your iPhone’s cellular connection to make and receive calls and messages, even when your iPhone is not nearby.
The Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) is a smartwatch that allows you to stay connected without your phone. It can make phone calls, send messages, and use apps, even when you don’t have your phone with you. But is the cellular feature necessary? Here are some reasons why the Apple Watch can still be useful without cellular.
Is Apple Watch Useful Without Cellular?
The Apple Watch is an impressive piece of technology, but some people might be wondering if it’s worth it to buy it without cellular. After all, what’s the point of having a watch if you can’t use it to make calls or send messages?
Well, as it turns out, the Apple Watch can still be quite useful even without cellular. Here are some of the best features of the Apple Watch that don’t require cellular:
Fitness Tracker: The Apple Watch has a built-in fitness tracker that can measure your heart rate, steps taken, and calories burned. It can help you stay motivated and reach your fitness goals.
Notifications: The Apple Watch can display notifications from your iPhone, such as text messages, emails, and app alerts. This way, you can see important information without having to pull out your phone.
Apple Pay: With Apple Pay, you can use your Apple Watch to make payments at stores that accept contactless payments. It’s a convenient way to pay for things without having to take out your wallet.
Music Control: The Apple Watch can control music playback on your iPhone, allowing you to change tracks, adjust volume, and skip songs.
Clock and Timer: The Apple Watch has a built-in clock and timer, so you can use it as a traditional watch.
So, while the Apple Watch is most useful with cellular, it can still be quite useful without it. If you’re looking for a fitness tracker, notifications display, or music control, the Apple Watch is a great choice.
What Are The Benefits Of Having An Apple Watch Without Cellular?
- 1. Increased battery life: Since the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) has built-in cellular capabilities, the GPS + Cellular model typically has a shorter battery life than the GPS-only model.
- 2. Lower cost: The GPS-only model of the Apple Watch Series 3 is typically less expensive than the GPS + Cellular model.
- 3. No monthly fees: The GPS-only model of the Apple Watch Series 3 does not require a cellular plan or monthly subscription fees, which can add up to significant savings over time.
- 4. No reliance on cellular networks: The GPS-only model of the Apple Watch Series 3 can still connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth and use your iPhone’s cellular connection to make and receive calls and messages, even when your iPhone is not nearby.
- 5. Greater privacy: Since the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) has its own cellular connection, it can send and receive data independently of your iPhone. Some people may prefer the GPS-only model in order to maintain greater control over their privacy.
How Does The Apple Watch Work Without Cellular?
The Apple Watch (Series 4 and newer) can work without cellular. Instead, it uses Bluetooth to connect to your iPhone, which needs to be nearby and connected to the internet for the watch to work.
The watch can send and receive messages, make and receive calls, and use certain apps. However, you won’t be able to use the watch without your iPhone if you’re out of range of your phone.
To use the watch without cellular, you’ll need to set up Family Setup. This feature allows you to set up an Apple Watch for a child or someone else who doesn’t have an iPhone. You can control which apps they can use, limit their screen time, and track their location.
You can also use the watch to track your fitness, receive notifications, and use Apple Pay. The watch has a built-in GPS and altimeter, so you can track your outdoor activities.
Overall, the Apple Watch is a great device without cellular, but it’s most useful when paired with an iPhone.
What Are The Limitations Of Using An Apple Watch Without Cellular?
An Apple Watch without cellular allows you to access many of its features, such as health and fitness tracking, music playback, and notifications, as long as your iPhone is nearby. However, there are limitations to using an Apple Watch without cellular.
The biggest limitation is that you won’t be able to use your Apple Watch as a standalone device when your iPhone isn’t nearby. This means you won’t be able to make or receive phone calls, send or receive text messages, or use many of the apps that require a cellular connection.
Another limitation is that you won’t be able to use many of the features that require a cellular connection, such as streaming music or podcasts, using Apple Pay, or using Siri.
In addition, you won’t be able to use many of the features that require a cellular connection to work, such as Emergency SOS, which automatically calls emergency services and shares your location.
Overall, an Apple Watch without cellular can still be a useful device, but it’s important to be aware of its limitations.
What Are The Alternative Options For Using An Apple Watch Without Cellular?
An Apple Watch without cellular can be paired with an iPhone for basic functionality, such as receiving notifications, making phone calls, and accessing certain apps. Another option is to use a Wi-Fi network for internet access, although this may limit the watch’s range. Additionally, an Apple Watch without cellular can function as a standalone device for certain tasks, such as tracking fitness, playing music, and using the built-in timer and stopwatch.
What Are Some Factors To Consider When Deciding Whether Or Not To Get An Apple Watch With Cellular?
When deciding whether to purchase an Apple Watch with cellular, there are several factors to consider. Here are some points to consider:
1. Frequency of Connectivity: If you often find yourself in situations where your phone is not readily available, such as during workouts or while traveling, cellular connectivity on your Apple Watch can be incredibly useful. It allows you to stay connected to important notifications, make and receive calls, and access the internet, even when your iPhone is not nearby.
2. Monthly Costs: Cellular connectivity on your Apple Watch requires a cellular plan, which may incur additional costs. Before making the purchase, assess your monthly budget to determine if you can afford the extra expenses. Consider your current phone plan, if any, and whether it already includes cellular data for your other devices. If you don’t need cellular connectivity on your Apple Watch, you can save on these costs by opting for a model without cellular connectivity.
3. Coverage Area: Another crucial factor is the coverage area provided by your cellular service provider. Ensure your Apple Watch will have reliable cellular coverage in the locations you frequent, such as your home, workplace, and favorite spots. Check the coverage maps provided by your carrier to assess the signal strength and potential dead zones. If you frequently travel to areas with spotty coverage, consider alternative options or evaluate the possibility of upgrading your cellular plan.
In a nutshell
In conclusion, the Apple watch is a useful device even without cellular connectivity. It offers a range of features, such as fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and notifications, that make it a handy accessory for everyday life. However, if you need to be in constant contact or access the internet, it is advisable to opt for the Apple Watch with cellular connectivity.
