Most Canadian mobile providers work well with Lil Tracker GPS devices, but Rogers-based and Bell-based networks are generally the most reliable choice. For the easiest setup experience, we still recommend using a Lil Tracker SIM card whenever possible.
All Lil Tracker devices are unlocked, which means they are not restricted to one specific carrier. However, the SIM card still needs to be compatible with the device and properly configured for mobile data, voice, and network access.
The easiest and most reliable option is still a Lil Tracker SIM card.
While many Canadian mobile providers can work, our own SIM cards are chosen and configured for compatibility with Lil Tracker GPS watches and safety devices. This helps avoid many of the activation, APN, and setup issues customers sometimes run into with third-party carriers.
If you prefer to use your own Canadian carrier, this guide explains which networks generally work best, which providers to avoid, and what to ask for when visiting a mobile store.
Quick Summary
- Rogers, Bell, Eastlink, Fido, Virgin Plus, Lucky Mobile, Chatr, Freedom Mobile, Videotron, PC Mobile, Petro-Canada Mobile, and 7-Eleven SpeakOut generally work well.
- We do not recommend Telus, Koodo, Public Mobile, or other Telus-based providers for new Lil Tracker activations.
- If you visit a carrier store, do not ask for a “watch plan.” Ask for a standalone SIM plan, BYOD SIM, or SIM card for a GPS tracker.
- Smaller providers and discount brands may require APN setup.
- All Lil Tracker devices are unlocked, but the SIM still needs to be compatible and configured properly.
Recommended Canadian Mobile Providers
The following providers have generally worked well with Lil Tracker 4G GPS devices in Canada:
Rogers Bell Eastlink Fido Virgin Plus Lucky Mobile Chatr Freedom Mobile Videotron PC Mobile Petro-Canada Mobile 7-Eleven SpeakOut
In general, Rogers-based and Bell-based providers are usually the safest choices. Many smaller and discount providers also work, but they may require manual APN setup.
Important: We Do Not Recommend Telus or Telus-Owned Providers
For new Lil Tracker activations, we strongly recommend avoiding Telus and Telus-based providers.
While some customers have had success with certain older devices or older SIM cards, we continue to see inconsistent results with Telus network SIM cards, especially on newer 4G GPS devices.
Common issues include APN settings not saving correctly, the device showing 4G but failing to communicate properly, or the device being unable to stay reliably connected to the app.
This includes:
Telus Koodo Public Mobile Other Telus-based providers
To avoid frustration and unnecessary troubleshooting, we recommend choosing a Rogers-based or Bell-based provider instead.
Do Not Ask for a “Watch Plan” at the Carrier Store
This is one of the most common sources of confusion. If you ask for a SIM card for a “watch,” many carrier employees immediately assume you mean an Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch companion plan. Those plans are designed to share a phone number with a mobile phone and generally do not work with Lil Tracker GPS devices.
Do Not Ask For
Watch plan Smartwatch plan Apple Watch plan Samsung Watch plan Companion watch plan
Ask For Instead
Standalone SIM plan
Bring your own device plan
BYOD SIM card
Standalone data plan
SIM card for a GPS tracker
Lil Tracker devices need their own standalone SIM card with their own phone number, mobile data, and network access. They do not use companion smartwatch plans.
Will Discount Providers and Subsidiaries Work?
Yes, many discount providers and subsidiary brands work well, especially if they operate on Rogers or Bell infrastructure. However, smaller providers and discount brands are more likely to require manual APN setup.
The APN tells the device how to connect to the provider’s mobile data network. Without the correct APN, the device may show signal or 4G but still appear offline in the app.
If you are using a smaller carrier and the device shows 4G but appears offline, or if voice calls are not working properly, see our APN setup guide.
What Kind of Plan Does a Lil Tracker Device Need?
For most customers, the best plan is a standalone SIM plan with mobile data, a unique phone number, and voice calling if you plan to call to or from the device. SMS/text messaging can also be helpful for setup and troubleshooting.
Data-only plans may work for some features, but they are not ideal if you want calling, SOS calling, remote monitoring, or SMS-based setup support.
Compatible Lil Tracker Devices
This guidance applies to most Lil Tracker GPS devices, including kids GPS watches, senior GPS watches and pendants, 4G GPS smartwatch models, GPS safety watches, and wearable tracking devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an Apple Watch or Samsung Watch plan?
No. Apple Watch and Samsung Watch plans are usually companion plans tied to a smartphone. Lil Tracker devices need a standalone SIM card with their own phone number.
Are Lil Tracker devices unlocked?
Yes. Lil Tracker devices are unlocked, but the SIM card must still be compatible with the device and properly configured for mobile data, voice, and network access.
Can I use Telus, Koodo, or Public Mobile?
We do not recommend Telus, Koodo, Public Mobile, or other Telus-based providers for new Lil Tracker activations. Some customers may have success, but connection and APN issues are common enough that we recommend avoiding them.
Do Rogers, Bell, and Eastlink work?
Yes. Rogers, Bell, and Eastlink have generally worked well with Lil Tracker GPS devices in Canada.
Will I need to set the APN?
With some providers, yes. Major providers may connect automatically, but smaller providers and discount brands often require manual APN setup. See our APN setup guide if your device shows 4G but appears offline, or if voice calls are not working properly.
What should I ask for at the carrier store?
Ask for a standalone SIM plan, bring your own device plan, BYOD SIM card, or SIM card for a GPS tracker. Avoid saying you need a “watch plan,” since that often leads to the wrong type of plan.
Need Help Choosing a SIM Card?
If you are unsure whether a carrier or SIM plan will work with your Lil Tracker device, contact us before purchasing. Our Canadian support team can help you choose the best option and avoid unnecessary setup problems.