20MB download limit on 3G?

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Level 4

3,885 points

20MB download limit on 3G?

I have often seen mention of a 20MB download limit on 3G for the iPad.
I do not have my iPad yet (July here) but ALL my internet access is on 3G mobile.
Have just downloaded the combo update for 10.6.4. so obviously no 3G limit on my MacBook Pro.
So is the 20MB download limit for the iPad worldwide or just through AT&T in the US?

MacBook Pro 2.4Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo, Mac OS X (10.6.4), June '08. Firewire 400 + 800

Posted on Jun 20, 2010 6:31 PM

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Answer 1

Best reply

deggie

Level 10

167,177 points

Jun 20, 2010 6:37 PM in response to Ashka

Worldwide for downloading apps/movies, etc directly to the iPad over 3G.

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Answer 2

ShadyMac

Level 4

1,277 points

Jun 21, 2010 5:30 AM in response to Ashka

There is only a limit in the sense that you must buy a data plan that allows either 200MB per month or 2GB per month of data usage...(allowing for overage)

The 20MB limit you're referring to is only specific to iTunes...Apple has placed a limit on the size of apps that can be downloaded via 3G vs needing WIFI... that limit is 20MB...so if you are trying to download an apps that is over 20MB you will need to connect to a WIFI network in order to get it...

This limit is not part of the limit with the data you purchase and use each month to use

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Answer 3

lllaass

Level 10

210,411 points

Jun 21, 2010 5:55 AM in response to ShadyMac

Besides apps, the 20 MB limit also applies to movies and other purchases from iTunes. However, you can stream all you want up to you total plan limit.

Message was edited by: lllaass to adding streaming.

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Answer 4

Ashka Author

Level 4

3,885 points

Jun 21, 2010 1:34 PM in response to ShadyMac

Thanks guys but this is not making much sense.. I am NOT in the US.

I do NOT have access to WiFi or streaming. My only internet access is via 3G with a 4gig monthly data plan..
At this stage I'm downloading everything for my future iPad through iTunes on my Mac over 3G. Music, iBooks, iWork, Apps & Videos etc.

The iPad will have a micro sim with a 1 or 2Gig 3G data plan. No WiFi access unless I share my Macs 3G access through Airport which seems rather daft.

The question remains, 20MB limit worldwide or just for the US.

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Answer 5

dylan.g

Level 1

20 points

Jun 25, 2010 7:04 PM in response to Ashka

I'm in OZ i have a 64g Ipad with 3g and Unfortunately the 20MB download limit still applies.

i believe the limit was put in place by or for the benefit of the AT&T network in the US because they couldn't handle the data usage when the iPhone came out.
in oz Apple has kept the limit in place i don't know if this is at the request of the telecos or just Apple being Apple.

it ***** if you want to download a large app of a tv show you will have to hit macas or fire up the macbook.

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Answer 6

Jun 25, 2010 8:20 PM in response to Ashka

20MB is only a limit for direct to iPad transfer from iTunes and Apps store. This limit is imposed by Apple, not the carriers. It is intended to keep their store running effectively, and minimize the failed downloads that might occur on larger file sizes, and the resultant service and support issues.

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Answer 7

Ashka Author

Level 4

3,885 points

Jun 25, 2010 9:07 PM in response to dylan.g

Thanks dylan,
So to get over the 20mb limit, I'm left with sharing my Mac's 3g access with the iPad via Airport ~ hit Macas or Esquires for their WiFi or just use the same 3g on my Mac and sync the iPad.
At least I know for sure now ~ still a daft system outside the US though..

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Answer 8

Ashka Author

Level 4

3,885 points

Jun 30, 2010 7:16 PM in response to Ashka

No more worries about the 20MB download limit....

I have decided to purchase a NetComm 3G travel router t1.
A MiFi would work but only with one of the 2 main mobile networks here.

Just put the 3G USB Modem into the router and hay presto WiFi. 🙂 (Sim only into MiFi)
Save by buying a WiFi only iPad, share the one 3G data plan with Laptops and multiple iPads.

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Answer 9

Apollo8

Level 1

8 points

Jul 19, 2010 10:12 AM in response to Ashka

Actually, it's daft inside the United States as well.

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Answer 10

Sep 26, 2010 1:40 AM in response to Apollo8

Yeah this is a stupid rule, I'm in Italy and I have a 3G sim with a 10gb monthly limit, I bought the iPad here as I'm on a yacht and don't have wifi access and want to be bake to download my tv shows, however I can't do it still. If I'd known I would have bought the wifi iPad and a separate adapter for a 'dongle' and that would have been that. I'm so annoyed that this isn't made well known for people buying them.

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Answer 11

Jul 21, 2011 5:12 PM in response to British Bulldog

I think apple should refund everyone the extra cost who bought 3G iPad2 as it is a scam and doesn't work!! Either that or they remove this ridiculous 20MB limit. Telstra in Oz has told me it is an Apple issue, not their limit. We bought my mother-in-law the 3G version because she doesn't have a computer or modem! Big let down! No warning!

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Answer 12

gdgmacguy

Level 7

21,885 points

Jul 21, 2011 8:42 PM in response to melanie cb

http://www.apple.com/feedback/ipad.html

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Answer 13

MoodyG9

Level 1

0 points

Oct 23, 2011 3:52 AM in response to Ashka

Hi I'm in Uganda ang I am using orange 3G network and still faced with the same 20mb download limit.

I don't think this limit applies on the 3G carrier generally but rather I believe it's Apple Inc oriented because i've read posts from many people acros the globe and everyone is faced with the same fate.

So I was wondering has anyone come with the solution to this dilemma

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Answer 14

Nov 18, 2011 9:19 AM in response to Ashka

Most of posts are of 2010 , now we are at the end of 2011 and I am pretty sure nobody got the restriction free download from iTunes via 3G. I request all of you to go to the apple iPad feedback page and request for a change in the rules.

Here is the link.

http://www.apple.com/feedback/ipad.html

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Answer 15

Feb 24, 2012 8:27 AM in response to Ashka

I am in Canada with Sask-Tel and having the same issue. I live in a rural area and 3G from my phone is my only source of internet, I have no other options other than a satellite dish for an additional $100 a month plus $500 for install and satellite equipment. I am already paying for unlimited on my phone, now because of Apple I am going to have to pay that extra hundred a month to get movies and apps from i-tunes. Ripped me right off when I found out that Blackberry does not have those restrictions and I could save that money if I would have went with them. I used to love my Apple products. I will be making my way to the feedback page shortly!!!! And WHY has Apple not set up Chat support?????

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