Apple Watch 3 hits Hong Kong: 8 things to know about LTE edition
The latest Apple Watch, which allows you to make and receive phone calls without carrying your iPhone, finally arrives in Hong Kong on Friday – five months after they were launched last September in 10 other markets, including mainland China.
The new edition, called Apple Watch Series 3 GPS + Cellular, or LTE edition, can be used with both the global positioning system and long-term evolution 4G cellular network.
Unlike the GPS edition, the LTE edition requires the activation of an Apple Watch cellular service from your mobile service provider.
Here we take a look at the eight most common questions you may have about the LTE edition – and give the answers.
1. What is the difference between the LTE edition and the GSP edition of Apple Watch 3 series?
They have the same case sizes – 38 millimetres (1.49 inches) or 42mm – colour options and functions; but with its built-in eSIM (which is 1/100 the size of a traditional SIM card), the LTE edition can seamlessly connect to the mobile network when it is away from the paired iPhone.
It means it doesn’t need Bluetooth or Wi-fi connections with the phone. This allows users to make and receive calls, send a text, stream music and receive notifications from the phone.
2. In Hong Kong, which mobile service providers support Apple Watch’s cellular service?
CSL Mobile (CSL/1010) is the first one to support the Apple Watch cellular service. To activate the service, both the iPhone and the watch should connect to the mobile network from the same provider. It’s not known yet whether other mobile service providers will join later, or when they will join.
3. Can I use the LTE edition in mainland China?
No. There are three separate cellular editions of Apple Watch 3, each tailored to the group of countries/regions where the watch is sold, such as using different cellular frequencies. [Mainland] China and Hong Kong unfortunately belong to two different regions.
According to CSL Mobile, roaming outside the network coverage area of the mobile service provider is not available for the LTE edition.
However, you will still get connected when the watch is near the paired iPhone.
5. Will the use of mobile data drain the watch battery quicker?
Yes. To save on battery power, you can turn off the mobile network connection when the watch is close to your iPhone.
6. Does the LTE edition work with my iPhone?
It works only with iPhone 6 or newer models running iOS 11.2.5 or later.
7. The LTE edition has a built-in eSIM. Does it mean I need a different phone number?
No. Both the iPhone and the watch will use the same phone number.
8. How much does the LTE edition cost?
A: It’s available at the Apple Store from HK$3,188 (US$408), for models with an aluminium case, HK$4,888 for those with a stainless steel case, and HK$9,288 for models in the Hermès collection.
Smartwatch, which goes on sale in the city on Friday, five months behind other markets including mainland China, will cost from HK$3,188 (US$408)