No Smartphone Needed

Wearables may soon not rely on a smartphone, as more than one network-connected smartwatch hit the market.

One such smartwatch launching next month was developed by a major network to function as an independent device.

Verizon’s new Wear24 smartwatch can connect to Verizon’s 4G LTE network without requiring a smartphone.

The smartwatch automatically operates using the user’s existing phone number when sending texts and making calls, according to Verizon.

The smartwatch is equipped with an eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module), which enables the network connectivity. This functions similarly to the SIM card in a smartphone, but is not removable.

Integrating eSIMs into IoT devices enables networks to remotely configure device connectivity settings and allow or deny access based on the status of a device owner’s subscription.