An Apple Watch GPS+Cellular or Ultra does not require a data plan to function. I actually have personal experience with this as I own a cellular Apple Watch and have been using it without a cellular plan for quite some time.
When you purchase a cellular Apple Watch, it comes with an eSIM that allows it to connect to cellular networks. However, this doesn’t mean you are obligated to sign up for a cellular plan with a carrier. You can still use the watch like the GPS-only model and take advantage of all its features without the need for a separate plan.
Without a cellular plan, your Apple Watch will still be able to perform many functions. It can track your workouts, play music stored on the device, send and receive messages through iMessage, make and receive phone calls using your iPhone’s cellular connection, and even use certain apps that don’t rely on a cellular network.
Of course, there are certain limitations to using a cellular Apple Watch without a plan. The most obvious one is that you won’t be able to use the watch to make calls or send messages independently without your iPhone nearby. The watch will need to be connected to your iPhone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to access these features.
Additionally, without a cellular plan, you won’t have access to a cellular network when you are away from your iPhone and Wi-Fi. This means you won’t be able to stream music or use data-intensive apps that require an internet connection. However, you can still use the watch’s built-in GPS to track your location and workouts.
It’s important to note that while you can use a cellular Apple Watch without a plan, you will still need an iPhone to set up and activate the watch initially. The iPhone will handle the initial pairing and configuration process, and the watch will mirror certain settings and data from the iPhone.
Owning a cellular Apple Watch doesn’t necessarily mean you need to sign up for a cellular plan. You can still enjoy many of the watch’s features and functionalities without the need for a separate plan. However, keep in mind the limitations, such as the inability to make independent calls or access the internet without your iPhone or Wi-Fi.