An Apple Watch can do plenty when an iPhone is not nearby, but for most users it is not a completely independent replacement for an iPhone.
Once set up, Apple Watch can perform many tasks over Wi-Fi, and cellular models can use a supported mobile plan to stay connected when the paired iPhone is elsewhere. Features can include calls, messages, music, workouts, maps and other supported apps.
GPS-only models are more dependent on Wi-Fi or the paired iPhone for online features when away from the phone. Even without a connection, features such as workouts, activity tracking and some downloaded content can continue to work.
The important distinction is setup. A standard Apple Watch is designed to be paired and managed with an iPhone. Apple also offers Apple Watch For Your Kids through Family Setup, which allows a family member who does not have their own iPhone to use a compatible cellular Apple Watch managed from someone else’s iPhone.
So if the question is whether you can leave your iPhone at home for a run, a cellular Apple Watch can be highly independent. If the question is whether you can buy an Apple Watch as a standalone device with no iPhone involved at all, the answer depends on using Apple’s family setup options and compatible hardware.
