Hello Mariah, that's a really good question! You can create new messages, or quickly view incoming messages and send replies using the pre-installed Messages app without even taking out your phone. You can also send replies using Quick messages, or when you decline incoming calls. However, your watch must be connected to a phone unless the watch is an LTE model with active network services. You can even make and answer calls right from your wrist! You just need to make sure the watch is connected to your phone through Bluetooth or through a mobile network. ^Elizabeth