Just got a new smartwatch and wondering how to get it connected to cellular? Whether you are setting up an Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, or Google Pixel Watch, the process is more straightforward than you might expect. This guide walks through the steps for each platform so you can start making calls, streaming music, and getting notifications without your phone nearby.
Before You Start
You will need three things: a smartwatch with cellular capability (not just GPS), an active phone plan with a carrier that supports watch plans, and a paired smartphone with the corresponding companion app installed. Your phone and watch need to be on the same Wi-Fi network during setup.
Apple Watch Setup
Compatible models: Apple Watch Series 3 (cellular) through Series 10, Ultra, and Ultra 2.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone
- If setting up a new watch, follow the pairing prompts. If already paired, tap My Watch > Cellular
- Tap Set Up Cellular. Your carrier’s activation page will load
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add a cellular plan. Most carriers use eSIM for this step automatically
- Once the plan activates, your watch will show the cellular signal dots at the top of the screen
For a more detailed walkthrough, see our dedicated Apple Watch eSIM setup guide.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Setup
Compatible models: Galaxy Watch4, Watch5, Watch6 series, and Galaxy Watch Ultra (LTE versions only).
- Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your Samsung phone (or any Android phone)
- Go to Watch Settings > Mobile Plans
- Tap Add Mobile Plan and follow the prompts from your carrier
- The eSIM profile downloads to your watch. This usually takes a minute or two
- Once complete, your watch can operate independently from your phone
Google Pixel Watch Setup
Compatible models: Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3 (LTE versions).
- Open the Google Pixel Watch app on your phone
- Tap Mobile Network under watch settings
- Select your carrier and follow the eSIM activation prompts
- The plan activates and your watch connects to the cellular network
FAQ
Can I activate my smartwatch without my phone nearby?
To activate your smartwatch effectively, having your phone nearby is highly recommended. This makes the process smoother as you’ll need to use the phone’s app to pair and set up cellular service.
What should I do if my eSIM doesn’t download automatically?
If your eSIM doesn’t download automatically, you should follow the prompts to scan the QR code available on your eSIM activation card. This often resolves the issue.
Do smartwatch eSIM plans cost extra?
Most carriers charge a small monthly fee ($5 to $15) to add a watch line to your existing phone plan. You share the same phone number across both devices.
How long does smartwatch eSIM activation take?
Usually under five minutes. The eSIM profile download itself takes about a minute. Most of the time is spent on the carrier’s verification step.
Looking for Cellular Plans for Apple Watch?
Here’s a breakdown of all the plans that are currently available in the US.
| Carrier | Cost (per month) | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|
| US Mobile | FREE with Unltd Premium Or $6.5/mo annually Or $9.5/mo Taxes & fees included! | Works with any plans. |
| Verizon | $15 + tax & fees | $7.50 credit with certain plansVerizon |
| AT&T | $10 + tax & fees | |
| T-Mobile | $12 + tax & fees | Only works with certain planswww.iphonelife.comiMore |
| Xfinity Mobile | $10 + tax & fees | Pairs well with Xfinity home internet www.iphonelife.comCoverage Critic |
| C Spire | $10 + tax & fees | Only available in select regionsWear To TrackiMore |
Are there any plans to extending service to Samsung Watches in the future?? I’m curious what the limitation is from a technical perspective.
No limitations on our end. Just have to get our patners to work with us.
y’all should really improve the wording already. I really thought I could get this galaxy watch working on US mobile
Hmm. Hasn’t really been raised before but we’ll try ot incorporate your feedback as quickly as we can.
Yes I thought I could setup my Samsung watch as well. This sucks that I can’t do this for free as part of my Unlimited Premium plan!
We’re actively working with the OEM and should have plans soon.
I am a us mobile customer & have the unlimited warp plan. according to this article galaxy watches can be added which is a bold faced lie. I have a galaxy watch 5 pro & was refused activation because you only do apple & pixel watches even though Samsung watches i guarantee outnumbe pixels. I want service on my watch.
Hey Adam – yeah the intention was to offer general info about how to add esims to any galaxy watch but I can see how this ca be conflated with us offering plans on that watch. We’ll improve the wording as quickly as we can.