Does a child’s Apple Watch need a cellular plan?

Plan for the places your child actually goes

For internet-based communication away from usable Wi-Fi, a family watch needs an active supported cellular service and network coverage. Apple allows a family-managed watch to use a different carrier from the adult’s iPhone. Check eligibility with the provider rather than assuming your existing phone account includes it.

• Apple: cellular setup and limitations

Ask for a family-watch plan, not just a watch add-on

A number-sharing product for an adult’s paired watch is not automatically the right product for a child. For example, Telstra distinguishes its standalone Watch Plan, with a dedicated number, from One Number. Its Watch Plan also requires an eligible adult account and phone plan. Other providers set their own conditions.

• Telstra: Watch Plan and One Number explained

Questions worth asking before you subscribe

Use the words “Apple Watch For Your Kids” or “Family Setup” when talking to the provider. Ask them to confirm the exact plan name in writing so you can compare like with like.

• Does this plan support a watch set up for a family member without their own iPhone?
• Will my exact watch model work on your network?
• Do I need an adult phone plan with you as well?
• What data, calls and messages are included, and what happens at the limit?
• Are there activation costs, contract commitments or cancellation charges?
• How can I check coverage where my child will use the watch?

Keep travel and app costs separate

Apple says international roaming is not supported for watches configured with Apple Watch For Your Kids. Check before travelling rather than expecting a domestic plan to follow you abroad.

OkayTu does not include cellular service. Its launch pricing is still to be announced, so keep mobile-plan costs separate when working out your family budget.

• Apple: cellular setup and limitations