How to set up cellular on Apple Watch

Follow these steps to activate your cellular plan on Apple Watch and use your device without your iPhone nearby.

1. Verify carrier and device compatibility. Confirm your mobile carrier supports cellular on Apple Watch. Ensure your Apple Watch is paired to your iPhone and you are within range of a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network.
2. Access the Watch app. Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone. Navigate to the My Watch tab located in the bottom left corner of the screen.
3. Initiate cellular activation. Scroll down and tap the Cellular menu option. Select Set Up Cellular to trigger the activation interface provided by your carrier.
4. Authenticate with your carrier. Follow the on-screen prompts to log in to your carrier portal. This step often requires your account credentials or a secure code sent via SMS to confirm the addition of the wearable device to your plan.
5. Confirm cellular status. Wait for the status indicator in the Cellular menu to change from Configuring to your carrier's name. A green checkmark indicates that the cellular service is successfully provisioned on the Apple Watch.
6. Test independent connectivity. Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone or leave your phone behind. Swipe down from the top of the Apple Watch face to open the Control Center and check that the Cellular button shows bars of signal strength.