To the surprise of many potential buyers, it has been revealed that, while the new Apple Watch 3 is capable of making phone calls, it won’t support international roaming.
The new cellular version of the watch was available for ordering in a number of countries, including Australia, on Friday. It will be available for collection beginning this coming Friday, September 22.
A note in the Australian press release did make this plain, though the mention was in the small print near the bottom of the media release, which said: “Roaming is not available outside your carrier’s network coverage area. Carrier plan is required for mobile service.”
The release also stated: “Customers have the ability to make mobile calls directly with Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) and, when paired with AirPods, enjoy a seamless and fully wireless experience.”
Reason for the no-roaming rule was not stated by Apple, though presumably it is related to the telecoms technology used in the new Watch.
In Australia, pricing for the Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) starts at A$559, $100 more than the more basic Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS). The older and more basic series 1 Apple Watch is available at $359.
