The Apple Watch has undergone a significant transformation since its debut a decade ago, boasting larger displays, enhanced health features, and more powerful chipsets. While its primary function remains as an extension of your iPhone on your wrist, it has evolved into one of the most sought-after smartwatches on the market. Despite owning an Apple Watch for several years, I consistently discover new aspects to appreciate. This summer, I finally decided to activate a feature I had neglected for years, and it has completely transformed my Apple Watch experience for the better.
With the launch of the Apple Watch Series 3 in 2017, Apple introduced a subtle yet crucial feature: LTE connectivity. Prior to this, your Apple Watch relied on a Bluetooth connection to your iPhone to receive notifications, make phone calls, or run data-dependent apps. However, LTE enabled the ability to venture out without your iPhone while still receiving all notifications, running applications, and maintaining connectivity. Since the Series 3, Apple has offered LTE as an optional add-on, making it standard on the Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and stainless steel models of the regular Apple Watch Series lineup.
Although LTE is not a recent Apple Watch innovation, I had overlooked its potential until recently. As I’ve been trying to incorporate more running into my routine, I enjoy listening to music or podcasts to keep my mind engaged. Previously, I resorted to downloading podcasts or playlists directly to my Apple Watch. While it works, the process is undeniably tedious and time-consuming. Opening the Apple Watch app on my iPhone, selecting Apple Music or Apple Podcasts, choosing the desired songs or podcasts, and patiently waiting for everything to transfer to my Apple Watch at a snail’s pace is an experience best avoided. A couple of months ago, I decided to streamline this process with a simple solution: LTE. I opened the Apple Watch app, selected the Cellular option, and within seconds, I had an active T-Mobile LTE connection on my Apple Watch for a mere $10 per month. It has been a transformative experience.
The advantage of LTE-enabled Apple Watch lies in eliminating the laborious downloading process. Now, when I’m ready to go for a run, I simply leave my apartment, access the desired song or podcast, and I’m off. It doesn’t matter what album, playlist, or show I’m interested in listening to. As long as my Apple Watch is connected to T-Mobile’s towers, I have access to an unlimited library of content. This might not seem like a significant change on paper, but it has genuinely encouraged me to run more frequently. I always appreciate having fresh content to listen to, but the slow and monotonous process of removing old songs or podcasts and waiting for new ones to download significantly added to the preparation time for my runs. There were numerous occasions when I was ready to run but forgot to download something new to listen to, and by the time everything was downloaded, my motivation had dwindled, and I would stay home. With LTE, however, that excuse is no longer valid. I now have millions of songs and podcasts at my fingertips, readily available at a moment’s notice. It simplifies run planning, allows for spontaneous runs whenever I desire, and I can still receive all my texts and other notifications while leaving my iPhone behind. What’s not to love about that?
It’s not just for runners who can benefit from enabling LTE on their Apple Watch. Perhaps you seek easy access to music or podcasts while walking or biking. Maybe you value the convenience of receiving notifications when away from your iPhone. Or, perhaps you view it as a safety measure to contact loved ones in an emergency situation. After using and paying for LTE on my Apple Watch for the past couple of months, I can confidently assert that it’s worth every penny. It has made my runs easier, more enjoyable, and more frequent. Honestly, I can’t imagine running without it. Now, I’m simply frustrated that it took me this long to embrace the LTE advantage.
