Not So Fast Apple SIM Users, AT&T Confirms iPad Air 2 SIM Gets Locked To Its Network
Apple had good intentions by equipping its cellular-based iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 with SIM card options, thereby giving owners the flexibility to choose from a variety of short and long term data plans from different carriers. This can be especially handy if you're an international man (or woman) of mystery who frequently travels abroad. However, be advised that once you pair a SIM card with AT&T's network, you're stuck like glue.
That little tidbit has been making its way around the web and is now confirmed in an Apple support document regarding cellular data plans and SIM cards.
"Using Apple SIM, you can choose from different cellular carriers and their various programs. The data plans vary by carrier. For instance, in the United States, you can choose a domestic plan from either Sprint or T-Mobile and also pick an alternate plan from the other carrier as needed. When you choose AT&T on iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3, AT&T dedicates Apple SIM to their network only," Apple says.
Once your SIM card is dedicated to a specific network, you'll have to purchase a new one from an Apple Retail store in order to switch carriers.
The Apple SIM card that comes pre-installed in cellular iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 devices supports a handful of carriers. In the U.S., the list includes AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile, though not Verizon. It appears that AT&T is the only one currently locking the SIM card to its network once activated (the iPad remains unlocked)
That little tidbit has been making its way around the web and is now confirmed in an Apple support document regarding cellular data plans and SIM cards.
"Using Apple SIM, you can choose from different cellular carriers and their various programs. The data plans vary by carrier. For instance, in the United States, you can choose a domestic plan from either Sprint or T-Mobile and also pick an alternate plan from the other carrier as needed. When you choose AT&T on iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3, AT&T dedicates Apple SIM to their network only," Apple says.
Once your SIM card is dedicated to a specific network, you'll have to purchase a new one from an Apple Retail store in order to switch carriers.
On Ipad with@apple sim here is what u see..no @Verizon ,@ATT trying to lock u, @sprint with error page! @TMobile wins pic.twitter.com/z0jDZ9sRt5
— John Legere (@JohnLegere) October 23, 2014
The Apple SIM card that comes pre-installed in cellular iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 devices supports a handful of carriers. In the U.S., the list includes AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile, though not Verizon. It appears that AT&T is the only one currently locking the SIM card to its network once activated (the iPad remains unlocked)
