In a first for South Africa, iStore announced today that it will finally offer cellular-capable Apple Watches, and they’re available to pre-order from today 15 May. It’s offering both the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple Watch Series 5 cellular variants for pre-order

The watches use built-in eSIM technology that allows you to stay connected even if you don’t have your phone with you. This is obviously great news for runners and outdoorsy people who don’t plan to take their bulky phones on a morning jog.

How it works

But, there is a catch. The eSIM functionality is only available on the Vodacom network for the time being. Vodacom was the first network in SA to launch eSIM functionality, which is why iStore is offering the two device models through this network only right now. We’ll have to wait for other major networks to launch eSIMs to be able to connect to those networks.

“The eSIM functionality required for your Apple Watch Cellular will be exclusively available through the Vodacom network. If customers don’t have a Vodacom contract, they can apply for a new iPhone Vodacom contract at iStores nationwide or online…” iStore details in a press release.

The Apple Watch Series 3 and the Series 5 are both more-than-capable smartwatches, and arguably some of the best in the market. The addition of cellular capability makes them far more useful. Using the watches, you can quickly send a text message, check your emails and play music through Apple Music, even if you don’t have your phone with you.

You can pre-order either of the devices online from iStore from today and have it delivered directly to your home. If you upgrade to a new Apple Watch Series 5 Cellular through iStore, you will receive iCare Plus for Apple Watch which includes a free screen replacement and a 1-year Extended Warranty for an additional R200.

The Series 5 GPS + Cellular is priced from R12,500, while the Series 3 GPS + Cellular pricing starts at R7,500