Apple Watch is a series of smartwatches produced by Apple Inc. The first model was launched in 2015 and since then, the company sold more than 100 million pieces. Every series and model of the Apple Watch incorporates a lot of features such as fitness tracking, wireless telecommunications, health-related capabilities, and so on. Since its inception, Apple has released several iterations of smartwatches in the September of every year.
In its initial series, there were no cellular capabilities. However, starting with Series 3, the tech giant began to launch its cellular+GPS versions. Unsurprisingly, the combined version is equipped with more features than its GPS-only counterpart. For one, the cellular version has embedded SIM (eSIM) which enables it to access the LTE network. For more information, let’s explore the Apple cellular+GPS enabled smartwatches in detail.
What is an Apple Watch with support for SIM cards?
Apple launched its cellular+GPS smartwatch for the first time in its Series 3 in 2017 and has added improvements to design and functionality continuously. The cellular+GPS model can work like a smartphone independently. Its another variant, the GPS-only model, can also make and receive calls, send and receive SMS, but only when your iPhone is nearby and switched on.
In the case of the cellular-enabled model, the smartwatch has an embedded eSIM that can do activities on the mobile network. This includes calling, texting, and cellular data access, among other things, all without needing an iPhone close by. Moreover, because the SIM is embedded, not a lot of space is consumed in comparison with smartwatches that require a physical SIM. To clarify, it does not have a SIM tray or slot, as the eSIM is soldered to its motherboard during its manufacturing.
How Apple’s cellular+GPS smartwatches are better than GPS-only models
An Apple Watch cellular+GPS model is more expensive than the equivalent GPS-only model. Unsurprisingly, this is because the cellular+GPS model has more features. You don’t need to keep your iPhone with you, either. Moreover, the cellular+GPS models come in glossy stainless steel and titanium cases, both expensive materials, whereas the GPS-only models are only available in a durable aluminum casing.
Though the cellular models are more battery-consuming, the difference is hardly noticeable. It also has a Family Setup feature which allows your family members (who don’t have an iPhone) to use their Apple Watch to make phone calls, send SMS, and share their location with you. It is important to note that not all people need a cellular+GPS model. GPS-only models are already capable of doing a lot of things if connected with your iPhone at all times.
Apple Watch cellular+GPS models list
Now’s the time to get into the specifics of the support for SIM cards on the Apple Watch. There are many models of cellular Apple Watch available in the market today. The company is constantly striving hard to provide its consumers with the best quality smartwatches, and that’s why each series is better than the previous one. The following is the list of all the cellular Apple Watch models at the time of writing:
- Apple Watch Series 3
- Apple Watch Edition (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Hermès (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) Stainless Steel
- Apple Watch Nike+ (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) Aluminum
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS + Cellular) Aluminum
- Apple Watch Nike+ (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS + Cellular) Stainless Steel
- Apple Watch Hermès (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS + Cellular) Aluminum
- Apple Watch Nike (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS + Cellular) Stainless Steel
- Apple Watch Hermès (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Edition (GPS + Cellular) Titanium
- Apple Watch Edition (GPS + Cellular) Ceramic
- Apple Watch SE
- Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular) Aluminum
- Apple Watch Nike (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular) Aluminum
- Apple Watch Nike (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular) Stainless Steel
- Apple Watch Hermès (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Edition (GPS + Cellular) Titanium
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS + Cellular) Aluminum
- Apple Watch Nike (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS + Cellular) Stainless Steel
- Apple Watch Hermès (GPS + Cellular)
- Apple Watch Edition (GPS + Cellular) Titanium
Are Apple Watch models that support SIM cards worth buying?
A cellular+GPS Apple Watch is indeed a better option than the GPS-only model of the same series. It is up to the user whether they require all the features and functionalities of the SIM-enabled Apple Watch. To help you, we suggest asking yourself these questions before the purchase. Do you often go out without your phone? If yes, do you frequently need to make calls, texts, and access the internet during that time?
Do you want to stream Apple Music and podcasts when your iPhone isn’t with you? Is there a need for you to use the Family Setup feature? It is also important to figure out whether your carrier supports the Apple Watch cellular+GPS model. You need to analyze everything before choosing the suitable option. If you think the benefits are worth a few bucks extra the cellular Apple Watch costs, go for it.