Apple Watch Cellular models in India now finally support the Vodafone Idea network. So far, only Airtel and Reliance Jio networks had eSIM support, but Vodafone has now announced Apple Watch eSIM support as well. Only postpaid users can avail this facility for now, and the eSIM activation is compatible with Apple Watch Series 3 Cellular models or later that are running on WatchOS version 6.2 operating system or later. With this new support, Vodafone postpaid users will be able to use their compatible Apple Watch to make and receive calls and use data on the Vodafone Idea network, even while being away from the phone.
Currently, Vodafone Idea is offering eSIM activation for Apple Watch Cellular models to select circles only. This includes Vodafone postpaid users in Mumbai, Delhi, and Gujarat. Prepaid users are not eligible for eSIM activation as of yet. Furthermore, the Vodafone Idea customer should have Apple Watch Series 3 (Cellular), Apple Watch Series 4 (Cellular), or Apple Watch Series 5 (Cellular); and iPhone 6s or later model to use this service. For those unsure, check for eligibility by sending the text “CHKESIM” to 199. This service is still not activated for Idea postpaid customers, however the company says it ‘working on it.'
In order to start using Vodafone postpaid services on the compatible Apple Watch, the wearable will need to be paired with the iPhone device and activated by Vodafone. As this is an extended facility to existing iPhone users, Vodafone Idea does not charge any activation fees. Users won't need to buy a separate postpaid plan for the Apple Watch, and both the primary iPhone device and the Apple Watch will work on the same connection.
Vodafone Idea notes that international roaming is not available for Apple Watch even though the subscriber's Vodafone mobile postpaid number and plan may support international roaming. Usage done on the Apple Watch Cellular will be charged as per the bill plan active on the registered mobile number.
Is iPhone SE the ultimate 'affordable' iPhone for India? We discussed this on Orbital, our weekly technology podcast, which you can subscribe to via Apple Podcasts or RSS, download the episode, or just hit the play button below.
For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who'sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube.