IPad 4G

5 May 2012 10:25:55

Graham Caves

Hello Folks,

I am thinking of buying an iPad this weekend, probably the 64GB model but do I need 4G?

This is further complicated by the fact that the 4G iPad is incompatible with the UK 4G network when it arrives in the UK!

So if I buy a 4G iPad will I only get 3G service? Is it worth paying another £100 for 4G for something that is incompatible with the UK system.

Admittedly I will use the iPad mostly at home on our wi-fi but at work or around England when I travel wi-fi won't be enough so might need "4G" coverage.

Any opinions or advice would be great fully received.

Many thanks

Graham

Re: IPad 4G

5 May 2012 11:37:37

Mick Burrell

I can't comment specifically on the 4G/3G issues but it's actually going to boil down to what you want to use the iPad for whilst out of range of wi-fi. I use mine (well, actually my phone) for checking email and the occasional web site and the existing mobile network manages just fine. But for heavier use I think connecting via a mobile network may well prove disappointing especially if you use features in Mail on your Mac (like signatures - plural) which have not made it to mobile devices.

Re: IPad 4G

5 May 2012 14:14:37

John Surtees

Our niece uses a Giffgaff sim card in her iPad and manages to get 3G very nicely in the London area.

http://giffgaff-free-sim.appspot.com/

If you need something other than WiFi, it seems a very nice option. I don't know anything about the company, but it appears to be on the O2 network but cheaper.

Re: IPad 4G

5 May 2012 17:45:01

Gordon Clyne

I think 4g is often referred to as LTE or long term evolution.... For wireless, and it has backward compatibility as well as the ability to activate and integrate future services, I can't imagine a carrier denying iPad service. Are you buying this in the US and bringing it over?..... If so you probably are going to get crappy wireless because hats all they have in the USA !!
Buyer beware. If you want a cheaper iPad and are buying it in the USA, fine, I did that too, but I don't want one with a phone because I use my phone for that... Duh.... And there are plenty of wireless hotspots around for those of the wifi persuasion.

Re: IPad 4G

18 Jun 2012 20:09:37

Lionel Ogden

If you have an iPhone also is it not possible to use the iPhone as a wifi hotspot for a wifi only iPad. Maybe other smart phones do the same.