Everything you should know about Apple Watch Series 3 Cellular
Apple will launch its Watch 3 Cellular in India on May 11. The standard GPS-only variant has been available in India since last year for Rs.29,900, but now the GPS+Cellular variant has also come to the market. It comes with a cellular connection, and through an e-SIM, lets users make calls, send SMS, stream music, and even book a cab, all without their iPhones.
No more carrying iPhone around to keep Apple Watch connected
The Apple Watch Series 3 Cellular will be priced at Rs. 39,080 for the 38mm size variant and Rs. 41,120 for the 42mm size variant. The watch provides ultimate flexibility by being completely independent of the iPhone. It automatically switches between the three connectivity options of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile according to what will provide the best experience and when.
It will work for users with Jio, Airtel iPhone connections
There is no physical SIM card in the smartwatch and the e-SIM on your iPhone is digitally transferred to the embedded chip inside the watch for cellular connectivity. Currently, only Jio and Airtel are offering connectivity on the Apple Watch 3 Cellular in India. They are doing so at no extra cost, unlike in the US where users pay $10 monthly for the same.
The smartwatch only supported by iPhone 6 and above models
The Apple Watch 3 Cellular features a more efficient dual-core processor which allegedly delivers up to 70% more performance. It runs the watchOS 4. To be compatible, the smartwatch should be running watchOS 4.3 and your iPhone should be on iOS version 11.3 or above.
New, improved functionalities
The smartwatch comes with advanced sensors that can track activities like walking, hiking, climbing, skiing, and even snowboarding. Its updated Heart Rate app provides detailed measurements during resting, workout, walking, recovery and Breathe sessions. It is also claimed to be water-resistant up to 50 meters and offers a separate GymKit app specifically for gym-goers to track their progress.
Maps on the watch can give you turn-by-turn directions
With cellular connectivity, users can ask Siri to use the SOS feature in case of an emergency without having to hunt for their iPhone. In an update, the watch face now shows cellular strength and dynamically updates information based on personal routine, location, and time.
Things to keep in mind
Notably, it is mandatory to have the same telecom operator on your smartwatch and iPhone. In case you take your smartwatch out of India, you will have to subscribe to an international roaming plan regardless of you carrying your iPhone or not. Lastly, an Apple Watch Series 3 Cellular bought from any other country will not work in India.