Yes, you can manually select which cellular network to use on your Apple Watch:
Manually Select Cellular Network on Apple Watch
1. Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
2. Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.
3. Tap Network Selection.
4. Turn off Automatic to enable manual network selection.
5. Your Apple Watch will scan for available networks. Tap the network you want to use.
6. If prompted, enter the network password using the watch keyboard or Scribble.
7. Tap Join to connect to the selected network.
Your Apple Watch will now use the cellular network you manually chose, even if your paired iPhone is connected to a different network[1][3].
To switch back to automatic network selection:
1. Open the Cellular or Mobile Data settings on your Apple Watch.
2. Tap Network Selection.
3. Turn on Automatic.
Your Apple Watch will then automatically use the same cellular network as your paired iPhone[1].
Note that manual network selection is only available on Apple Watch models with cellular connectivity. GPS-only models cannot use cellular networks[1][3].
Citations:
[1] https://support.apple.com/en-gb/119601
[2] https://support.apple.com/en-us/111818
[3] https://support.apple.com/guide/watch/connect-to-wi-fi-apdff5efc8fb/watchos
[4] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254358319
[5] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253181817
[6] https://support.apple.com/en-us/102359
[7] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250250159
[8] https://support.apple.com/fr-fr/119601International roaming is indeed possible on the Apple Watch Series 5 and later, including the Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Ultra, provided that certain conditions are met. Here are the key points regarding the use of international roaming on the Apple Watch:
Requirements for International Roaming
1. WatchOS Version: The Apple Watch must be running watchOS 9.1 or later to support international roaming[1][3].
2. Cellular Model: Only cellular models of the Apple Watch can utilize international roaming features. GPS-only models do not support this capability[1][4].
3. Carrier Support: Your mobile network provider must support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and international roaming for the Apple Watch. Not all carriers provide this service, so itâs essential to confirm with your provider before traveling[1][3][6].
4. Setup Process:
- Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
- Tap on Cellular, then turn on Data Roaming[2][3].
Limitations
- Family Setup: International roaming is not supported for Apple Watches set up using Family Setup[1][3].
- Regional Models: The Apple Watch is available in different regional models that may not support all cellular bands used globally, which can affect roaming capabilities depending on your location and carrier[1][4].
Practical Considerations
While many users report successful connections when roaming internationally, experiences can vary significantly based on the carrier's infrastructure and support. For instance, some users have encountered issues where their Apple Watches connect to local networks but fail to maintain a stable connection or complete calls[2][4]. Therefore, it's advisable to test your setup before relying on it during travel.
In summary, while international roaming is possible on compatible Apple Watches, ensuring that your carrier supports this feature and confirming the correct settings are crucial steps for a successful experience abroad.
Citations:
[1] https://support.apple.com/en-gb/119601
[2] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254391689
[3] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254735959
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/AppleWatch/comments/117digr/apple_watch_cellular_roaming_not_that_easy/
[5] https://www.hkcsl.com/en/apple-watch-international-roaming-service-activation-and-support/
[6] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255065329
[7] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254957379
[8] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253415659
Which carriers support international roaming on the Apple Watch 10
International roaming on the Apple Watch Series 5 and later, including the Apple Watch SE and Ultra, is supported by various carriers, but the availability and specifics can vary significantly. Hereâs a summary of some carriers known to support international roaming for the Apple Watch:
Carriers Supporting International Roaming
1. AT&T (USA):
- Offers international roaming for Apple Watch, but primarily in Canada and Mexico.
- Users can connect their Apple Watch directly to a VoLTE network in these countries without needing the iPhone nearby.
- Outside of North America, users may need to rely on their iPhone's cellular connection or Wi-Fi[5].
2. T-Mobile (USA):
- Provides global roaming capabilities through its DIGITS service, which allows for cellular connectivity on wearables.
- Specific details on roaming availability may not be extensively documented, so contacting customer service is recommended for clarity[5].
3. SoftBank (Japan):
- As of November 2022, SoftBank has rolled out international roaming services specifically for Apple Watch users[5].
4. CSL (Hong Kong):
- Offers a service that allows an Apple Watch to share the same mobile number as the paired iPhone, enabling voice and data usage while traveling abroad.
- Users can enjoy unlimited roaming data in designated areas where VoLTE is supported[3].
5. Vodafone (Various Regions):
- Generally supports international roaming on the Apple Watch; however, user experiences suggest that connectivity may vary by location and network conditions[4].
Important Considerations
- VoLTE Requirement: For international roaming to function, carriers must support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and have specific plans that include roaming services for wearables.
- Regional Limitations: Not all carriers provide comprehensive coverage worldwide; thus, it's essential to verify with your specific carrier regarding their international roaming policies and coverage areas.
- Device Compatibility: Ensure your Apple Watch is a cellular model and updated to watchOS 9.1 or later.
Before traveling, it is advisable to contact your carrier directly to confirm the availability of international roaming services for your Apple Watch and any additional fees that may apply.
Citations:[1] https://support.apple.com/en-gb/119601
[2] https://support.apple.com/en-qa/119601
[3] https://www.hkcsl.com/en/apple-watch-international-roaming-service-activation-and-support/
[4] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254391689
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/AppleWatch/comments/117digr/apple_watch_cellular_roaming_not_that_easy/
[6] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254735959
[7] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255065329
[8] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254957379