Privacy with iPad Pro cellular

My partner wants to kindly buy me an iPad Pro + cellular with her phone provider as it’s cheaper than getting finance with Apple. I don’t need the cellular as I don’t have it with with iPad Pro 2016, I have unlimited data on my phone and always connect it to that. My partner is very nosey and I’m concerned that given it’s a cellular one she can access what I do and browse etc. Can I use the iPad without the sim even being in it? Or with the mobile data switched off?

iPad Pro 12.9-inch, 3rd Gen, Wi-Fi, Cell

Posted on Feb 28, 2020 5:47 AM

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Posted on Feb 28, 2020 8:49 AM

Perfectly safe - and private - having a Cellular model does not present any privacy issues. You do not need to utilise the Cellular features or activate a Cellular Service plan with any provider. It’s sometimes useful to have access should it ever be necessary; remember, you cannot “upgrade” the internal hardware.


Consider also that the Cellular model may in fact be a better choice - whether you intend to use the Cellular features or not. If you ever need to use GPS positioning to automatically determine your location, then be aware that only Cellular models of iPad include GPS capabilities.


Many purchasers of WiFi Only iPad discover this fundamental difference when its too late - and subsequently regret the assumed frugality of choosing the WiFi Only in preference to the Cellular model. Personally, if the small cost differential is not an issue, I would always recommend the Cellular model over WiFi Only.


I hope this is helpful in informing your eventual decision.

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 28, 2020 8:49 AM in response to lucytruelove

Perfectly safe - and private - having a Cellular model does not present any privacy issues. You do not need to utilise the Cellular features or activate a Cellular Service plan with any provider. It’s sometimes useful to have access should it ever be necessary; remember, you cannot “upgrade” the internal hardware.


Consider also that the Cellular model may in fact be a better choice - whether you intend to use the Cellular features or not. If you ever need to use GPS positioning to automatically determine your location, then be aware that only Cellular models of iPad include GPS capabilities.


Many purchasers of WiFi Only iPad discover this fundamental difference when its too late - and subsequently regret the assumed frugality of choosing the WiFi Only in preference to the Cellular model. Personally, if the small cost differential is not an issue, I would always recommend the Cellular model over WiFi Only.


I hope this is helpful in informing your eventual decision.

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Privacy with iPad Pro cellular

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