How to set up cellular on Apple Watch

Step by step

1. 1 min

   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.

   Note: Contact your carrier if your specific plan does not support wearable device add-ons.
2. 30 sec

   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. 1 min

   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. 2 min

   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.

   Note: Ensure your browser pop-up blocker is disabled if the login page fails to load.
5. 30 sec

   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. 1 min

   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.

   Note: The cellular icon will turn green when an active connection is established.