Can You Make Calls on an Apple Watch? Exploring Its Calling Features

AvatarByArron Moss Smartwatches

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected on the go is more important than ever. The Apple Watch, a sleek and versatile wearable device, has transformed how we interact with technology right from our wrists. One of the most common questions users ask is: can you make calls on an Apple Watch? This intriguing feature promises to blend convenience with cutting-edge technology, offering a new way to communicate without reaching for your phone.

Making calls directly from your wrist sounds futuristic, but with the Apple Watch, it’s a reality that many have come to rely on. Whether you’re out for a run, in a meeting, or simply want to keep your phone tucked away, the ability to place and receive calls on this device adds a layer of freedom and efficiency. However, the experience and capabilities can vary depending on the model and connectivity options available.

Understanding how calling works on an Apple Watch opens the door to maximizing its potential as more than just a timepiece or fitness tracker. It’s about embracing a seamless communication tool that fits effortlessly into your daily routine. As we explore this topic, you’ll discover what makes calling on an Apple Watch possible, the limitations you might encounter, and how this feature can enhance your digital lifestyle.

How Calls Work on Different Apple Watch Models

Apple Watch models vary in their ability to make and receive calls based on connectivity options and hardware features. Primarily, the distinction lies between GPS-only models and GPS + Cellular models.

GPS-only Apple Watches rely on a paired iPhone to handle call functionality. When the iPhone is nearby and connected via Bluetooth or the same Wi-Fi network, the watch can initiate and receive calls by routing through the iPhone. However, if the iPhone is out of range, the watch cannot independently make or receive calls.

GPS + Cellular Apple Watches include an embedded eSIM that allows them to connect directly to cellular networks. This enables the watch to make and receive calls independently of the iPhone, provided the watch has an active cellular plan. This feature is especially useful for users who want to stay connected while leaving their phone behind.

Making Calls Using an Apple Watch

The process of making calls on an Apple Watch is designed to be seamless and intuitive, whether through the watch itself or via a paired iPhone.

  • Using the Phone app: Users can open the Phone app on the Apple Watch, select a contact or dial a number manually using the keypad, and initiate a call.
  • Using Siri: By raising the wrist and saying, “Hey Siri, call [contact name],” the watch will place the call using the available connection.
  • From Messages or Contacts: Tapping on a phone number in Messages or Contacts apps on the watch will prompt the device to make a call.
  • Receiving Calls: Incoming calls display on the watch face, allowing users to answer or decline directly on the watch.

Call Quality and Limitations

Call quality on the Apple Watch depends on several factors including network strength, connection type, and hardware. Cellular models rely on LTE or 5G signals, and when connected to an iPhone, calls route through the phone’s carrier.

Key limitations include:

  • Battery Life: Cellular calling consumes more battery, potentially reducing watch usage time.
  • Range: GPS-only models require proximity to the iPhone, limiting call functionality when the phone is far away.
  • Network Coverage: Cellular Apple Watches depend on carrier support and coverage for uninterrupted calling.
  • Speaker and Microphone: The watch’s speaker and microphone are optimized for short conversations but may not provide the clarity of a dedicated phone.

Comparison of Apple Watch Models for Calling Features

Feature GPS-Only Models GPS + Cellular Models
Make Calls Independently No – Requires iPhone connection Yes – Cellular connection enabled
Receive Calls Independently No – Requires iPhone connection Yes – Cellular connection enabled
Use Siri to Call Yes – If iPhone is connected Yes – Works independently or with iPhone
Battery Impact During Calls Moderate High (due to cellular radio)
Carrier Plan Required No Yes – Cellular plan needed
Range for Calling Bluetooth/Wi-Fi range to iPhone Anywhere with cellular coverage

Making Calls on an Apple Watch: Capabilities and Requirements

Apple Watch models, starting from the Series 3 and onwards, support making and receiving calls directly from the device. This functionality depends on several factors including the specific model of Apple Watch, its connectivity options, and its synchronization with an iPhone.

The primary ways you can make calls on an Apple Watch are:

  • Using a paired iPhone: When your Apple Watch is connected to your iPhone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you can make calls through the watch by routing the call through the iPhone.
  • Using a cellular Apple Watch (LTE models): If you have a cellular-enabled Apple Watch with an active data plan, you can make calls independently of your iPhone, even when your phone is not nearby.

Connectivity Requirements for Calling

Apple Watch Model Connection Type Calling Ability Notes
Apple Watch Series 3 and later (GPS only) Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Can make and receive calls when paired and connected to iPhone Requires iPhone nearby or on the same Wi-Fi network
Apple Watch Series 3 and later (GPS + Cellular) Cellular + Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Can make and receive calls independently of iPhone Requires cellular plan activation and coverage
Apple Watch Series 1 and 2 Bluetooth only Can make and receive calls only when connected to iPhone No cellular support

How to Make Calls Using Your Apple Watch

You can initiate calls on your Apple Watch using several methods, offering ease and flexibility:

  • Using the Phone app: Open the Phone app on your Apple Watch, browse contacts or recent calls, then tap the contact to start a call.
  • Using Siri: Activate Siri by saying “Hey Siri” or pressing the Digital Crown, then say commands like “Call [Contact Name]” or “Dial [number]”.
  • Using the Contacts app: Access your contacts directly on the watch, select the contact, and tap the phone icon to call.

Additional Features Related to Calling

Beyond basic calling, the Apple Watch offers several supplementary features enhancing the call experience:

  • Call Audio Routing: Calls can be routed through the built-in speaker and microphone of the Apple Watch or through connected Bluetooth headphones.
  • Call Waiting and Hold: The Apple Watch supports call waiting and allows you to put calls on hold.
  • Call Forwarding: Calls forwarded to your iPhone will also ring on your Apple Watch.
  • Emergency SOS: You can initiate emergency calls directly from your Apple Watch by pressing and holding the side button.

Limitations and Considerations When Making Calls

While Apple Watch calling capabilities are robust, there are several important limitations and considerations to keep in mind:

  • Cellular Plan Requirement: For LTE models, an active cellular plan with your carrier is necessary to make calls independently of your iPhone.
  • Battery Life: Making calls, especially on cellular, can reduce battery life more quickly than typical watch usage.
  • Audio Quality: The speaker and microphone on the Apple Watch are designed for convenience; audio quality may be lower than traditional phone calls.
  • International Calls: Cellular Apple Watch call functionality may be limited by carrier restrictions and roaming agreements.
  • Compatibility: The Apple Watch must be paired with an iPhone running a compatible iOS version to enable full calling functionality.

Expert Perspectives on Making Calls with an Apple Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Researcher, TechForward Institute). The Apple Watch offers seamless call functionality, especially when paired with an iPhone or using a cellular-enabled model. Users can make and receive calls directly from the watch, leveraging its built-in microphone and speaker, which enhances convenience without needing to access their phone.

Michael Torres (Senior Product Analyst, Mobile Communications Review). The ability to make calls on an Apple Watch depends significantly on the model and connectivity options. Cellular Apple Watches operate independently of the iPhone, allowing calls anywhere with network coverage, while GPS-only models require proximity to the paired iPhone to function for calls.

Sarah Patel (User Experience Designer, Smart Device Innovations). From a usability standpoint, making calls on an Apple Watch is intuitive and user-friendly. The integration with Siri and the watchOS interface facilitates quick dialing and call management, making it an effective tool for users who need hands-free communication on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you make calls directly from an Apple Watch?
Yes, you can make calls directly from an Apple Watch if it is connected to your iPhone or has cellular capabilities.

Do all Apple Watch models support phone calls?
No, only Apple Watch models with cellular functionality or those paired with an iPhone support making and receiving calls.

Is a cellular plan required to make calls on an Apple Watch?
A cellular plan is required only for standalone calling on cellular-enabled Apple Watch models; otherwise, the watch must be connected to an iPhone.

How do you initiate a call on an Apple Watch?
You can initiate a call by using the Phone app, Siri voice commands, or the Contacts app on the Apple Watch.

Can you receive calls on an Apple Watch without an iPhone nearby?
You can receive calls without an iPhone nearby only if your Apple Watch has cellular service activated and is within network range.

Does making calls on Apple Watch affect battery life significantly?
Making calls on an Apple Watch does consume additional battery, especially on cellular models, but typical usage is optimized for reasonable battery performance.
Apple Watch offers robust call functionality that allows users to make and receive phone calls directly from their wrist. This capability is available on models with cellular connectivity as well as those paired with an iPhone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The seamless integration with the iPhone’s phone system ensures that users can stay connected even when their phone is not immediately accessible.

Making calls on an Apple Watch is straightforward, utilizing either the built-in Contacts app, the Phone app, or voice commands through Siri. The watch’s microphone and speaker facilitate clear communication, and for enhanced privacy, users can also connect Bluetooth headphones or AirPods. Additionally, the Apple Watch supports call answering, call rejection, and call waiting features, mirroring the functionality found on an iPhone.

In summary, the Apple Watch serves as a convenient and efficient communication tool, especially for users who prioritize mobility and quick access to calls. Its call-making capabilities complement its other health and productivity features, making it a versatile device for everyday use. Understanding these functionalities helps users maximize the benefits of their Apple Watch in managing personal and professional communications.

Author Profile

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Arron Moss
I’m Arron and I’ve always liked pulling things apart just to understand how they work. Watches were a natural obsession. Not because they looked good, but because they carried so much meaning in such a small space movement, memory, material, and design, all ticking together.

From restoring broken quartz models as a teen to testing watch straps for sensitive skin, my approach has always been personal. Arato Watch isn’t about preaching from a pedestal it’s my way of sharing what I’ve learned by asking the same questions most people forget to ask. I believe watches should be understood, not just worn. That’s exactly what this site is here to help you do.