Apple iPad's WiFi+Cellular model: Understanding GPS location and call capabilities

I recently found out, that buying an APPLE iPad, one really should purchase a data plan, larger than needed;  APPLE; NEVER explained this in ANY description? WHY?


Secondly, and, probably more, VITALLY IMPORTANT, there was also, NO mention of a functionality difference between “WiFi+Only” or, “WiFi+Cellular” models. 


The difference is having the Cellular function model, which, includes GNSS/GPS location capabilities-which may impact any Apps or features that require accurate & consistent location data, such as Mapping, but, it does NOT include making calls.


YOU can purchase an iPad with a WiFi+Cellular model, which IS connected to an iPhone, and provides access to precise location services, as well as making and receiving calls


[Re-Titled by Moderator]


iPad Air, iPadOS 18

Posted on Mar 3, 2025 12:48 PM

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Mar 3, 2025 2:38 PM in response to PJS1

PJS1 wrote:

I recently found out, that buying an APPLE iPad, one really should purchase a data plan, larger than needed;  APPLE; NEVER explained this in ANY description? WHY?

WHY should one buy only a Wi-Fi + cellular model? If you have an iPhone or any Android phone you can use the Personal Hotspot for cellular access from your iPad.


The ONLY reasons to buy an iPad with cellular network support is if you don’t have any smartphone or you frequently need to use the iPad when you don’t have your smartphone with you.

Mar 3, 2025 1:36 PM in response to PJS1

PJS1 wrote:

I recently found out, that buying an APPLE iPad, one really should purchase a data plan, larger than needed;  APPLE; NEVER explained this in ANY description? WHY?

Because carriers will generally only sell you a data-only plan for a tablet.

Secondly, and, probably more, VITALLY IMPORTANT, there was also, NO mention of a functionality difference between “WiFi+Only” or, “WiFi+Cellular” models. 

Possibly because it seems pretty obvious what the functional difference is from the name. A WiFi only iPad can only connect to the internet when it has WiFi. A WiFi + Cellular iPad can connect using either WiFi or cellular, thus giving you more options if you plan on using the iPad outside of areas where you know there will be WiFi.

The difference is having the Cellular function model, which, includes GNSS/GPS location capabilities-which may impact any Apps or features that require accurate & consistent location data, such as Mapping, but, it does NOT include making calls.

That is only one difference and usually not the first one people think of.

YOU can purchase an iPad with a WiFi+Cellular model, which IS connected to an iPhone, and provides access to precise location services, as well as making and receiving calls

Some people only have WiFi-only iPads because they don't use cell phones. Or, they're buying it for a child. For them, saving $100 is a nice thing.

Mar 3, 2025 1:18 PM in response to PJS1

PJS1 wrote:

I recently found out, that buying an APPLE iPad, one really should purchase a data plan, larger than needed;  APPLE; NEVER explained this in ANY description? WHY?

Secondly, and, probably more, VITALLY IMPORTANT, there was also, NO mention of a functionality difference between “WiFi+Only” or, “WiFi+Cellular” models. 

The difference is having the Cellular function model, which, includes GNSS/GPS location capabilities-which may impact any Apps or features that require accurate & consistent location data, such as Mapping, but, it does NOT include making calls.

YOU can purchase an iPad with a WiFi+Cellular model, which IS connected to an iPhone, and provides access to precise location services, as well as making and receiving calls

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Sorry, but quit blaming Apple, you're the consumer, it is your responsibility to do research before making a purchase, common sense here.


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Apple iPad's WiFi+Cellular model: Understanding GPS location and call capabilities

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