Use Apple Watch without its paired iPhone (2024)

Use your AppleWatch without your iPhone nearby

With Apple Watch with cellular and an activated cellular plan, you can stay connected even when away from your iPhone. For all other models of AppleWatch, there are still things you can do even when you are away from your iPhone and not connected to Wi-Fi.

• Play music

• Play podcasts

• Play audiobooks

  See Also

  If your iPhone or iPad won't connect to a Wi-Fi network - Apple Support

• Record and play voice memos

• Use transit cards and use your student ID card

• Find people, find devices, and find items

• Use the watch, world clock, alarms, timers, and the stopwatch

• Display photos from synced photo albums

• Make store purchases with Apple Pay

• See calendar events

• Track your activity and workout

• Check your heart rate, edit your sleep schedule, measure your blood oxygen levels, track menstrual cycles, and relax and breathe mindfully

• Measure sound levels around you and from your headphones

AppleWatch has a built-in GPS that allows you to get more accurate distance and speed information during an outdoor workout without your paired iPhone. AppleWatch also has a built-in barometric altimeter to get more accurate elevation gain/descent information. The always-on altimeter in AppleWatchSE, AppleWatch Series6, and later is even more accurate, showing your current elevation in real time.

If your AppleWatch is connected to Wi-Fi

When your AppleWatch is connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can still do the following (even if your iPhone is turned off):

• Get apps from the AppStore

• Send messages

• Make phone calls (make phone calls if you have Wi-Fi calling enabled or want to make a FaceTime audio call and you’re within range of a Wi-Fi network)

• Use Walkie-Talkie

• Stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks to your AppleWatch

• Add music

• Check current weather conditions

• Track your stocks

• Control your home

• Use third-party apps that support Wi-Fi connectivity