The Apple Watch was released in 2015 as Apple’s first venture into the smartwatch market. As a product that is meant to be connected to an iPhone, many people wonder if the Apple Watch can work without its counterpart. In this article, we will explore whether the Apple Watch can operate independently or not.

First, let’s establish the basics. The Apple Watch is designed to be paired and synced with an iPhone via Bluetooth. This connection allows the watch to access phone notifications, messages, and phone calls, among other features. Hence, it is clear that without an iPhone, the Apple Watch cannot function fully. However, there is an alternative.

In 2017, Apple introduced cellular connectivity to the Apple Watch. This new feature allowed users to make and receive calls and texts without needing an iPhone nearby. This means that the Apple Watch can indeed work entirely on its own, provided it is a cellular model.

With this option, users can leave their iPhones at home while still being able to use their Apple Watch to handle calls, send texts and emails, and perform other tasks. Apple Watch owners can also take advantage of Apple Pay and other Apple Watch-specific apps without a phone present.

However, it’s worth noting that the cellular option requires an additional cost, as it requires a separate cellular plan to be activated through a user’s wireless carrier. This could be an added expense for users looking to use the Apple Watch independently.

Furthermore, without a direct connection to an iPhone, certain features may be affected. For instance, voice assistance Siri may not work as well. Siri requires a live internet connection, which can be challenging to maintain on cellular data, especially when connected to a cellular network.

Finally, it’s important to note that not all Apple Watch apps work without an iPhone. Third-party apps may have different features accessible depending on the device being used, and some may not work at all without a smartphone nearby.

In summary, the Apple Watch’s features are best accessed when connected to an iPhone. However, the cellular models of the Apple Watch can function independently. They allow users to remain connected to the internet, make phone calls and send messages, and use various apps without a smartphone nearby. That said, users should be mindful of the added cost of a cellular plan and the potential limitations to some of the watch’s features when used without an iPhone.