BetterRoaming Apple Watch mobile data plans are now available in the Netherlands.
BetterRoaming is one of a handful of mobile operators selected by Apple to provide mobile data plans for cellular Apple Watches. These plans allow the wearer to access mobile internet on their smartwatch, just like using mobile data on a phone.
BetterRoaming Apple Watch plans are already available in Australia, France, Germany, Poland, Spain, the UK, and the USA – now, they’ve landed in the Netherlands. Every plan comes with unlimited mobile data, calls, and texts, and the option to cancel at any time.
Apple Watch owners will be able to download a plan in seconds via the BetterRoaming website ( there's even a 7-day free trial for new users).
What is a BetterRoaming cellular Apple Watch plan?
Since 2018, every generation of the Apple Watch and the Apple Watch SE has been sold in both GPS-only and “GPS + Cellular” versions (with cellular models retailing for around $50-$100 more). The new Series 11 and SE 3 models both offer this as a purchase option. Higher-end lines like the Ultra 3 or Apple Watch Hermès feature GPS + Cellular connectivity as standard.
While the GPS-only models can access the internet, they require a nearby iPhone, paired via Bluetooth, to do so. Any mobile data usage, calls, or text messages on the Apple Watch are governed by the paired iPhone’s mobile plan.
A cellular Apple Watch instead operates as an independent mobile device, able to get online, send SMS messages, and make calls without a paired iPhone. This is made possible by an integrated eSIM – a tiny chip inside the body of the Watch that allows it to download a SIM profile and connect to mobile networks.
To access these features, the wearer requires a cellular Apple Watch Plan. These are mobile plans specifically designed for the Apple Watch, and available through mobile operators hand-picked by Apple, including BetterRoaming.
Installation is swift and easy, and immediately allows the wearer to start using their watch like a phone (see a step-by-step guide to installing an Apple Watch plan here). Once installed, a cellular Apple Watch plan can be managed just like any other eSIM plan – the BetterRoaming app provides a simple overview of data usage, payments, and more.
What is Apple Watch For Your Kids?
Formerly known as Family Setup, Apple Watch For Your Kids is a software feature for cellular Apple Watch models. With this feature enabled, users can set up an Apple Watch to function as a standalone mobile device that connects to the internet without being paired to a nearby iPhone. Crucially, it allows one person, such as a parent or guardian, to set up and manage multiple Apple Watches from their iPhone. This way, the iPhone user can provide the whole family with connected mobile devices while retaining control over billing, device usage, and certain features of each Apple Watch. This can range from limiting screentime to managing contacts and viewing the real-time location of each watch. As Apple puts it, “It’s independence for them. And peace of mind for you.”
Despite being initially developed and marketed for families with young children, Apple Watch For Your Kids can be used by any group of people who want the freedom of a cellular Apple Watch, without needing an accompanying iPhone. Cellular smartwatch usage is at an all-time high, as people embrace the minimalism of wearable tech over conventional mobiles.
For children, they provide all the connectivity of a smartphone (bolstered by Apple’s suite of kid-friendly safety features) without the distraction of a large screen and media-playing capabilities. For anyone else, it offers the opportunity to leave their phone and home and head out, safe in the knowledge that they’ll still be able to keep in contact when needed, listen to music, and track their exercise.
How do I start using a BetterRoaming Apple Watch plan?
First, you’ll need a cellular Apple Watch. Since 2017, the Apple Watch and the Apple Watch SE have been sold in both Bluetooth-only and cellular versions. The Apple Watch Ultra and Hermès lines all feature cellular technology. If you're not sure which model your Watch is, you can check it here.
Those who already own a cellular Watch model can visit betterroaming.com/watches/apple-watch-family/ to choose a plan and start using it.
Free trial
Unsure whether a BetterRoaming Watch plan is right for you? New users can test them out first with a 7-day free trial – that's a whole week of unlimited calls, texts, and mobile internet use on your Apple Watch.
New Apple Watch owners can also download a BetterRoaming Apple Watch plan during setup and have it ready to go the second they start using it.
For those outside of the Netherlands, UK, US, Australia, France, Poland, Germany, or Spain, watch this space! As cellular watch plans grow in popularity worldwide, BetterRoaming is ready to expand its services to new countries.
