Maybe: many older LTE watches still connect, but carriers are dropping support for the oldest ones.
The quick answer
- Galaxy Watch 4 and newer: yes
- Original Galaxy Watch and Gear S3 LTE: check your carrier
- Watch lines usually cost $10 to $12 a month
- Bluetooth features work without service
How it works now
Watches like the original Galaxy Watch LTE (2018) and Gear S3 Frontier LTE connect through carrier number-sharing services. Carriers have removed some older models, and Samsung ended updates for Tizen watches. Your carrier's watch compatibility page is the best check.
How to check yours
- Find the IMEI: dial *#06#, or look in the phone's settings or under the battery.
- Enter it in your carrier's compatibility checker. Every major carrier and most prepaid brands have one.
- If it isn't supported, it's usually missing approval for VoLTE (calls over 4G), which every US phone now needs.
Who it still works for
If the cellular side stopped working, it still works as a Bluetooth watch with your phone nearby.
If you're replacing it
A new moto g 2026 or Galaxy A17 costs little, gets years of updates, and several carriers give them away when you switch. Pair it with a low-cost plan such as Mint Mobile ($15 a month for 6GB on a 12-month term) or Visible ($25 for unlimited, taxes included).
Current offers from Metro, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T and Xfinity.
See phone deals →Frequently asked questions
Does an older LTE smartwatch still work in 2026? +
Can I switch carriers with an older LTE smartwatch? +
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Jean Gilles has researched personal finance, consumer technology, and wireless pricing for over a decade. He founded ShopCellPlans in 2019 and writes every review on the site.