How do I activate the 4G LTE option on my Pixel Watch 3 with Vodafone Australia

Overview of Pixel Watch 3 LTE

The Google Pixel Watch 3 supports 4G LTE connectivity which allows the watch to connect directly to a mobile carrier without the need for a paired phone nearby. Activating LTE on the Pixel Watch 3 enables features such as streaming playback, making and receiving calls and texts independently of the phone, and using apps that require an internet connection. The watch shares the same number as the paired phone, allowing synchronization of communication. However, for this functionality to be fully available, both the Pixel Watch and the companion Android phone must be on the same carrier network.

Compatibility and Carrier Support with Vodafone Australia

While Google Pixel Watch LTE models come unlocked for 4G LTE activation, full compatibility depends on carrier support. Historically, Vodafone Australia had limited official support for the Pixel Watch LTE, but users have explored various ways to activate LTE on Vodafone Australia networks. Activating LTE requires a carrier that supports eSIM profiles for wearables, like the Pixel Watch. Vodafone Australia supports eSIM technology, and their mobile plans can enable LTE for compatible devices.

Vodafone Australia offers NumberSync, a service that lets a smartwatch share the same mobile number as your phone, enabling calls, texts, and data under one plan. This feature is exactly what Google Pixel Watch LTE uses to provide seamless cellular connectivity without a separate number.

Preparing for Activation

Before activating LTE on the Pixel Watch 3, ensure the following:

- The Pixel Watch 3 is fully charged and powered on.
- The Android phone paired with the watch is compatible and connected to the Vodafone Australia network.
- The phone has the latest version of the Google Pixel Watch app installed.
- The phone is connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data during the setup process.
- A Vodafone Australia mobile plan with LTE and eSIM support is active and eligible for NumberSync or an equivalent wearable data plan.
- You have access to your Vodafone account credentials for logging in during the setup.

Step-by-Step Activation Guide for 4G LTE

1. Check eSIM Identification (EID) on the Watch
- On the Pixel Watch, swipe down from the top and tap the Settings icon.
- Tap Connectivity, then Mobile, and then SIM status.
- Scroll to the bottom and locate the watch's EID. This is a unique identifier necessary for setting up the eSIM with Vodafone.

2. Start Mobile Network Setup on the Watch
- In Settings > Connectivity > Mobile, ensure the status is set to On.
- If there is an option for mobile data or cellular, select it.

3. Open the Pixel Watch App on Your Phone
- Launch the Google Pixel Watch app.
- Tap Mobile network or Mobile data.
- Choose Set up a new profile or Set up a new profile via your cellular carrier.

4. Log in to Your Vodafone Australia Account
- Follow the on-screen steps in the Pixel Watch app to log into Vodafone Australia's account portal.
- Provide necessary authentication details, such as username and password or security codes sent to your phone/email.

5. Carrier Profile Download and eSIM Activation
- After logging in, Vodafone will send a QR code or download the eSIM profile directly to the Pixel Watch.
- The watch will download and install the eSIM profile.
- If prompted, enter the SIM PIN code provided by Vodafone. There may be occasional interface bugs with PIN entry, requiring re-entry with empty fields.
- Once the eSIM profile is active, your Pixel Watch will connect to Vodafone's 4G LTE network.

6. Finalize and Confirm Connectivity
- After activation, check the watch's mobile network status in Settings > Connectivity > Mobile.
- The status should confirm that the cellular network is connected, and LTE is active.
- Restart the watch if the connection does not immediately establish.

Using NumberSync with Vodafone Australia

NumberSync allows your Pixel Watch 3 to use the same phone number as your mobile phone, enabling integrated call and messaging functions. To enable NumberSync:

- Activate NumberSync through Vodafone by contacting customer support or using the Vodafone app or website.
- Pair your Pixel Watch with your phone via Bluetooth and the Google Pixel Watch app.
- Ensure that NumberSync is enabled for your account and that your watch is listed as a connected device.
- This service functions so that calls and texts on either the watch or phone use the same number and plan.

Troubleshooting LTE Activation Issues

If LTE activation fails or your Pixel Watch does not connect to Vodafone's network, try these troubleshooting steps:

- Restart the Pixel Watch: Press and hold the crown button, select Restart, and try reconnecting.
- Reset eSIM Profile: On the watch, navigate to SIM status, and if an inactive or faulty eSIM profile is present, reset it. Some carriers may require calling customer support for reactivation.
- Clear and Re-try eSIM Setup: Delete any incomplete or erroneous eSIM profiles and attempt re-activation via the Google Pixel Watch app.
- Developer Mode and ADB Fix (Advanced Users): If LTE does not activate and the status shows "Radio OFF," enable developer mode from the watch settings, turn on wireless ADB, and use ADB commands through a PC. For example, forcing eSIM profile activation state with the command:

  adb shell settings put global cw_esim_profile_activation_state 1
  

Vodafone Specific Considerations

- Vodafone Australia supports VoLTE, which allows calls over the 4G network maintaining data speed during calls. This technology is essential for the full functionality of Pixel Watch LTE services.
- Using international eSIMs or unsupported carriers for Pixel Watch LTE with Vodafone Australia may cause connectivity issues since handset provisioning is carrier specific.
- Some users have reported delays in activation or partial functionality if provisioning servers or eSIM profiles are not properly configured on the carrier side.

Summary