I have been gifted an I Pad 10.2-inch 9th gen 2021 (Wi-Fi + GSM/CDMA + LTE. I do not intend to use the built in cellular systems. Is there any downside to having it and not activating it? Will it just be the same as the other 9 gens if it is not activated? I work overseas sometime and I think it was thought I may want it but I don't know if I ever will. Nice to know I have it I suppose.
There is “no downside” to having a WiFi+Cellular model iPad - whether or not you have any intention of using Cellular connectivity. In fact, there are functional benefits… and many users choose these models in preference to WiFi Only models of iPad.
Only WiFi+Cellular models of iPad have GNSS/GPS positioning capabilities - this being a function of the iPad Cellular chipset. WiFi Only models of iPad have no GPS capabilities with which iPad Location Services can derive location. This fundamental difference may significantly impact your ability to use mapping or location-based Apps - in particular if real-time positioning (e.g., a moving map) is required.
WiFi Only models can only “infer” their static location from a database lookup of neighbouring WiFi networks for which the geographic location is known, or the geographic location of your public IP address. For static applications in urban locations, where the location of IP public IP addresses and WiFi networks are known to databases, an “inferred” location can be relatively accurate. However, in rural locations, or when using a Cellular/Satellite/VPN connection, location accuracy of an inferred location [if it works at all] may be very inaccurate.
In summary, no downsides - but you benefit from additional functionality and the flexibility of using a Cellular internet connection should future need arise.
There is “no downside” to having a WiFi+Cellular model iPad - whether or not you have any intention of using Cellular connectivity. In fact, there are functional benefits… and many users choose these models in preference to WiFi Only models of iPad.
Only WiFi+Cellular models of iPad have GNSS/GPS positioning capabilities - this being a function of the iPad Cellular chipset. WiFi Only models of iPad have no GPS capabilities with which iPad Location Services can derive location. This fundamental difference may significantly impact your ability to use mapping or location-based Apps - in particular if real-time positioning (e.g., a moving map) is required.
WiFi Only models can only “infer” their static location from a database lookup of neighbouring WiFi networks for which the geographic location is known, or the geographic location of your public IP address. For static applications in urban locations, where the location of IP public IP addresses and WiFi networks are known to databases, an “inferred” location can be relatively accurate. However, in rural locations, or when using a Cellular/Satellite/VPN connection, location accuracy of an inferred location [if it works at all] may be very inaccurate.
In summary, no downsides - but you benefit from additional functionality and the flexibility of using a Cellular internet connection should future need arise.
GNSS/GPS, while incorporated within the Cellular chipset, operates independently of Cellular functions. You do not require active Cellular service to use the built-in GPS receiver.
You can activate cellular service using either a physical SIM card - or using the built-in eSIM:
Set up cellular data service on your Wi-Fi + Cellular model iPad - Apple Support
You’ll obviously require an appropriate plan with the chosen Cellular provider - either pre-paid or contract.
Apple also partner with some VMNO operators - allowing you to activate various Cellular service plans directly from the iPad. These plans are often used by travellers due to their flexibility - although their cost is somewhat higher than arranging service with a local operator.
What a great answer! Thank you LotusPilot!
To clarify, I am assuming if I do not activate the cellular chipset, the GPS positioning capabilities will also not be activated? Thus, my unit will perform on the wi-fi networks for mapping and such?
Also, if I am overseas for an extended time, will I be able to activate and use the GSM/CDMA using their networks and deactivate when I leave and repeat this in the next country I may stay?
Thank you kindly,
Shaz
Thank you again! Excellent info!
You are very welcome.
Is there a downside of GSM/CDMA + LTE if I don't use it?
