How to set up cellular on your Apple Watch

A concise guide to configuring a cellular plan on your Apple Watch. Follow these steps to enable standalone connectivity for calls, messages, and streaming.

  1. Verify carrier compatibility. Ensure your iPhone is connected to a cellular network and that your cellular provider supports Apple Watch plans. Verify that your service plan is active and eligible for an eSIM add-on.
  2. Open the Watch app. Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone. Navigate to the My Watch tab in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
  3. Access cellular settings. Tap the Cellular menu item. If you have not yet set up a plan, the app will prompt you to tap Set Up Cellular.
  4. Authenticate with your carrier. Follow the on-screen instructions to log in to your mobile carrier’s portal. The interface will redirect you to your carrier's secure login page to authorize the addition of the Apple Watch to your account.
  5. Confirm activation status. Wait for the status indicator in the Cellular menu to change from 'Activating' to your carrier’s name. Once successful, the cellular signal icon will appear in the Control Center on your Apple Watch.

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