Apple Watch users on both Visible and Verizon are experiencing significant challenges with cellular activation, a problem that has persisted for several days. Users have reported that their watches display a “Not In Use” message in the cellular plan settings, rendering them unable to connect to cellular services despite maintaining active lines and paying for the service.
The issue appears to have escalated around late October 2024, prompting numerous users to voice their frustrations on platforms like Reddit. One individual noted that customer support representatives claimed this was a “new issue,” even though similar complaints had surfaced weeks earlier. Another user recounted a grueling four-day ordeal with Verizon support before a local store manager confirmed that the activation problem is widespread, particularly affecting newer watch models.
Many customers have reported spending hours on support calls, performing multiple factory resets, and even receiving replacement watches, all to no avail. One frustrated Verizon customer described a three-hour conversation with support, only to be told they were unsure of the problem’s origin. Another user indicated that their watch had been inoperable for over a week without any resolution.
While a representative from Visible acknowledged awareness of the issue, they provided no estimated time for a fix. Customers have speculated that the problem originates upstream with Verizon, affecting both postpaid customers and those using Visible, as the latter operates on Verizon’s network. The situation is particularly frustrating for customers who purchased their watches directly through their carriers, as they too are encountering the same activation issues.
Potential Workarounds and Temporary Fixes
Some users have found a potential workaround that may resolve the connectivity problem. Several individuals reported success by downgrading from the NumberShare Plus plan ($25) to the regular NumberShare plan ($15). This change reportedly forced their watches to download a new eSIM, which alleviated the “Not In Use” status. However, this solution has not proven effective for everyone. Other users indicated that merely changing their cellular plan through the carrier’s app—without removing the watch’s eSIM—also resolved the issue.
For those still facing this activation problem, experimenting with the plan downgrade or contacting customer support and requesting an escalation may be the most effective routes. Customers are advised to remain persistent, even if they are met with delays in promised callbacks.
As users continue to grapple with these connectivity challenges, the hope remains that both Verizon and Visible will expedite a comprehensive solution to restore full functionality to affected Apple Watch owners.
