Ready to untether your smartwatch from your phone and experience true freedom? Adding an LTE-enabled smartwatch to your Verizon plan can be a game-changer, allowing you to make calls, send texts, stream music, and even use apps without your smartphone nearby. But how much does it actually cost, and what's involved in setting it all up? Let's dive in!
The Freedom of Your Wrist: Understanding LTE Smartwatches on Verizon
Imagine going for a run, leaving your phone at home, and still being able to receive important calls or stream your favorite workout playlist directly from your wrist. That's the power of an LTE smartwatch. Verizon, as a leading carrier, offers robust connectivity for these devices, but it's important to understand the costs and steps involved.
Step 1: Are You Ready for Smartwatch Independence? Assess Your Needs
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of costs and activation, let's take a moment to consider why you want an LTE smartwatch. Are you looking to:
Go phone-free more often? Think about your daily routines. Do you often leave your phone behind for short errands, workouts, or quick trips?
Enhance your fitness tracking? Many LTE smartwatches offer advanced GPS and heart rate monitoring, with the ability to stream music on the go.
Have a safety net? Emergency calling directly from your watch can be a lifesaver in certain situations.
Simplify your digital life? Get notifications and respond to messages directly from your wrist, without constantly pulling out your phone.
Understanding your primary use case will help you appreciate the value of the monthly service fee.
Step 2: Understanding the Core Costs – Monthly Plan & Activation Fee
Adding an LTE watch to your Verizon account primarily involves two types of costs: a monthly service plan and a one-time activation fee.
Monthly Service Plan: The "Always Connected" Fee
Verizon offers specific plans for connected devices like smartwatches. The most common plan is often referred to as Number Share - Mobile or a similar connected device plan.
Base Cost: As of recent information, the standard monthly cost to add an LTE smartwatch to your existing Verizon account is typically $15 per line. This amount can be discounted if you have certain eligible unlimited smartphone plans.
With a Discounted Smartphone Line: If you have an eligible Verizon Unlimited plan (such as Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Ultimate), you might be able to get a discount, bringing the monthly cost down to as low as $7.50 per month. This is a significant saving and a key factor to consider if you're already on an unlimited plan.
Prepaid Options: Verizon also offers prepaid smartwatch plans, which can be around $10/month for unlimited data (with a certain amount of high-speed data, typically 15 GB, before speeds are reduced). This is a good option if you prefer not to be on a postpaid plan.
What's Included: These plans typically include unlimited talk, text, and a certain amount of high-speed 5G/4G LTE data for your watch. This means you can make and receive calls and texts directly on your watch, stream audio, and use data-reliant apps.
Activation Fee: The Upfront Cost
Whether you bring your own compatible LTE smartwatch or purchase one directly from Verizon, you will typically encounter a one-time activation fee of $35.
When it Applies: This fee applies to activating any new cellular device on your account, including smartwatches. It's essentially a charge for setting up the new line of service.
Can it be waived? While it's generally a standard fee, some users have reported success in getting it waived by contacting Verizon customer service and politely asking, especially if they are long-time customers or adding multiple lines. Your mileage may vary here, but it doesn't hurt to ask!
Total Estimated Initial Cost:
So, to give you a clearer picture, if you're adding an LTE smartwatch and taking advantage of an eligible smartphone plan discount:
First Month: $7.50 (plan) + $35 (activation fee) = $42.50 (plus taxes and fees)
Subsequent Months: $7.50 (plan) (plus taxes and fees)
If you're on a standard plan without a discount, or on a standalone prepaid plan:
First Month: $15 (plan) + $35 (activation fee) = $50.00 (plus taxes and fees)
Subsequent Months: $15 (plan) (plus taxes and fees)
Remember, these are base costs and do not include the cost of the smartwatch itself, which can range from a few hundred dollars to nearly a thousand.
Step 3: Checking Compatibility and Purchasing Your Smartwatch
Before you activate, you need a compatible LTE smartwatch.
Sub-heading: Is Your Current Smartwatch Compatible? Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
If you already own an LTE-enabled smartwatch, it's crucial to check its compatibility with Verizon's network.
Find the IMEI: Locate the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number on your smartwatch. This is usually found in the device's settings (e.g., "About device" or "General > About") or on the original packaging.
Use Verizon's BYOD Tool: Visit the "Bring Your Own Device" section on Verizon's website. They have a tool where you can enter your smartwatch's IMEI to see if it's compatible with their network.
Ensure it's Unlocked: If you purchased your smartwatch from another carrier, make sure it's unlocked before attempting to activate it on Verizon.
Sub-heading: Shopping for a New LTE Smartwatch? Verizon's Offerings
If you don't have an LTE smartwatch or your current one isn't compatible, Verizon offers a wide range of options from popular brands like:
Apple Watch (GPS + Cellular models): For iPhone users, these are a seamless integration.
Samsung Galaxy Watch (LTE models): Excellent choice for Android users, especially with Samsung phones.
Google Pixel Watch (LTE models): Another strong contender for Android users, particularly those with Pixel phones.
Verizon GizmoWatch: A popular option designed for kids, offering basic communication and safety features.
You can purchase these directly from Verizon's website or in a Verizon store. Often, Verizon offers deals or payment plans for smartwatches when you add a new line of service.
Step 4: Step-by-Step Activation Process
Once you have your compatible LTE smartwatch and have decided on your plan, it's time to activate! The process can vary slightly depending on whether you're activating a new watch or adding an existing one, but the general steps are:
Sub-heading: For a New Smartwatch Purchased from Verizon
Power On and Pair: Turn on your new smartwatch and begin the initial setup. You'll typically be prompted to pair it with your smartphone via Bluetooth using the watch's companion app (e.g., Apple Watch app for Apple Watch, Galaxy Wearable app for Samsung).
Follow On-Screen Prompts: During the setup process in the companion app, you'll reach a step to set up cellular or mobile plan. Select this option.
Log into My Verizon: The app will redirect you to Verizon's activation portal or prompt you to log into your My Verizon account.
Choose a Plan: Select the desired smartwatch plan (e.g., Number Share - Mobile). If you have an eligible unlimited phone plan, the discounted rate should be displayed.
Confirm and Activate: Review the plan details, costs (including the activation fee), and confirm your selection. The activation process will then begin, and your watch's eSIM will be provisioned. This may take a few minutes.
Test Connectivity: Once activated, try making a call or sending a text from your watch without your phone nearby (turn off your phone's Bluetooth or put your phone in airplane mode to truly test the LTE connection).
Sub-heading: For a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Smartwatch
Check Compatibility (Again): Double-check your watch's IMEI on Verizon's BYOD page to ensure it's compatible.
Initiate Activation Online or In-Store:
Online: Go to Verizon's "Bring Your Own Device" page for smartwatches. You'll likely need to enter your watch's IMEI.
In-Store: Visit a Verizon store. A representative can assist you with the activation process.
Select Plan: Choose the appropriate smartwatch plan.
eSIM Provisioning: Since most LTE smartwatches use an eSIM (embedded SIM), Verizon will digitally provision your watch with the necessary cellular profile. You might receive a QR code or prompts within your watch's companion app to complete this step.
Complete Setup: Follow any remaining on-screen instructions in the companion app to finalize the cellular setup on your watch.
Verify Service: Once completed, test your watch's LTE connectivity independently of your smartphone.
Step 5: Managing Your Smartwatch Line
After activation, you can manage your smartwatch line just like any other line on your Verizon account.
Sub-heading: Using My Verizon App or Website
View Usage: Monitor your smartwatch's data, talk, and text usage.
Manage Plan: Review your current plan, check for eligible discounts, or make changes if needed (though smartwatch plans typically have limited variations).
Billing: See the charges for your smartwatch line on your monthly bill.
Troubleshooting: Access support resources if you encounter any connectivity issues.
Sub-heading: Understanding Number Share
If you chose a "Number Share" plan, your smartwatch will essentially mirror your smartphone's number. This means:
Calls and Texts: Calls and texts sent to your main phone number will ring/appear on both your phone and your watch.
Seamless Experience: It's designed for a seamless experience, allowing you to answer from whichever device is most convenient.
Standalone Number (Less Common): While less common for personal smartwatches, it is possible to get a completely new, standalone number for your smartwatch if you prefer. This is sometimes used for kids' watches or dedicated work lines.
Final Thoughts: The Value Proposition
Adding an LTE watch to Verizon does come with a recurring monthly cost and an initial activation fee. However, for many, the convenience, independence, and added safety features that come with being truly connected on the go, without always needing your phone, make it a worthwhile investment. Evaluate your lifestyle and connectivity needs to determine if the cost aligns with the value you'll gain.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check if my smartwatch is LTE compatible?
Quick Answer: Look for "LTE," "Cellular," or "GPS + Cellular" in the model name or specifications. You can also check the device's IMEI on Verizon's Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) tool.
How to activate a Verizon LTE smartwatch online?
Quick Answer: Go to the "Activate" section on Verizon's website, or log into your My Verizon account and follow the prompts to add a new device, entering your smartwatch's IMEI if prompted.
How to avoid the $35 activation fee for a Verizon smartwatch?
Quick Answer: The $35 activation fee is standard. While not guaranteed, some users have had success getting it waived by politely asking Verizon customer service, especially if they are long-term customers.
How to tell if my smartwatch plan has a discount on Verizon?
Quick Answer: Check your My Verizon account or app under your plan details. If you have an eligible unlimited smartphone plan, the discounted smartwatch line rate (e.g., $7.50) should be reflected there.
How to make calls from my LTE smartwatch without my phone?
Quick Answer: Ensure your smartwatch is activated with an LTE plan. Simply open the phone app on your watch and dial a number, or use your watch's voice assistant to initiate a call.
How to manage my Verizon smartwatch data usage?
Quick Answer: You can monitor your smartwatch's data, talk, and text usage by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app.
How to switch my smartwatch to a new Verizon phone?
Quick Answer: If you're upgrading your smartphone, you'll typically re-pair your smartwatch with the new phone through the watch's companion app, and the cellular connection should transfer automatically or with a few prompts.
How to set up Family Setup for an Apple Watch on Verizon?
Quick Answer: For Apple Watches used by family members without their own iPhones, you'll use the Family Setup feature within the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, and then add a connected device plan for that watch on your Verizon account.
How to cancel my Verizon smartwatch plan?
Quick Answer: You can cancel your smartwatch line by contacting Verizon customer service directly via phone or by visiting a Verizon retail store.
How to find compatible smartwatches for Verizon's LTE network?
Quick Answer: Visit Verizon's official website and navigate to their "Connected Smartwatches" or "Wearable Tech" section, which lists all the smartwatches compatible with and sold by them.
