If you’ve purchased or you’re looking to invest in an Apple iPad you may be pondering the iPad 3G: this version of Apple’s popular tablet includes a 3G modem and allows you to stay connected on the go.
What is 3G?
The ‘3G’ that Apple is referring to is also know as ‘mobile broadband’ (or HSDPA to technologists.) The 3G service allows you to access the internet at broadband speeds wirelessly using a mobile phone company’s network. Imagine browsing the internet on your iPad anywhere you can get a phone signal – that’s what 3G offers.
This means you can take your iPad out and about, and get connected to the internet on the go. You can send your emails from the park in summer, Skype from Starbucks, or Tweet on the train.
How do I connect my iPad 3G?
Apple's 3G iPad
You’ll need to buy a 3G data subscription from a mobile phone company – they’ll give you a MicroSIM card, which you insert into your 3G iPad. You can either buy data on a ‘pay as you go’ basis – where you can buy a day’s worth of access, or you can pay a monthly fee for a fixed amount of data. For help buying a data connection for your 3G iPad read our SIM Buyer’s Guide or check out our list of the UK’s best iPad SIM Card deals.
Isn’t 3G really expensive?
3G data used to be expensive – just 3 years ago it would have cost you nearly £60 a month, therefore only large companies could justify it. However, in the last year the competition has increased and the prices have fallen dramatically. You can now connect your 3G iPad for as little as £2 per day with O2.
I’ve heard 3G is slow and unreliable, is this true?
3G isn’t as fast as fixed line broadband that you buy from a company like BT so surfing at home with your iPad will probably be quicker than using your 3G connection. However most of the applications for the iPad don’t need a high speed connection so you should find that a 3G connection is quick enough for surfing, Tweeting or YouTubing.
Can I use my 3G iPad anywhere?
You can use the 3G iPad anywhere you get a 3G signal – and that’s the biggest advantage, yet also the most limiting factor. 3G covers most of the UK, especially in urban areas but you may struggle to surf at 3G speeds when you’re on a remote beach or in the countryside. It’s worth checking the coverage maps on the mobile phone company’s website before you sign up for a 3G service.
My iPad doesn’t have 3G, can I upgrade it?
No, you can’t. The only solution you have is to purchase an external 3G to WiFi modem, such as Three’s MiFi (click here for more details).
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