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iPad2 3G SIM unlocked?

Does anyone know if the iPad2 3G (GSM version) is SIM unlocked like the original was?

If so, great! And if not, I guess I'm buying an original one because I don't like the idea of being stuck with AT&T and I do like the idea of using 3G services with an iPad overseas (prepaid data SIM).

iPad, iOS 4

Posted on Mar 2, 2011 12:17 PM

Reply
39 replies

Mar 4, 2011 8:15 AM in response to fußpilz

Here is my contribution:

You are chatting with Nicole W, an Apple Expert
Hi, my name is Nicole W. Welcome to Apple!
Hi! How are you today?

Hi
Very good thank you.

Great to hear!
How can I help you today?

I have a question on the iPad 2 3G.

I am happy to help!

I want to buy it on March 11 but I travel often for business.
I wanted to make sure that it is not locked to a carrier, like the First Generation iPad, and that I will be able to use it with other GSM sim cards in other countries (if I buy the AT&T iPad 2).

Yes, the new iPad it carrier specific.
You can use other carrier in other countries, they will just need to be compatible with the SIM.

OK. But this means I will not have to have it unlocked by AT&T like I would have to do for an iPhone then?

Right, there is no contract with it.

OK, so there is no change from the first iPad. It was a bit confusing as the website says that it is carrier specific so I didn't know whether it was locked like for the iPhone.

It is carrier specific, meaning, you would need to find a carrier that uses the same type of SIM.

OK. So if I find a carrier abroad that uses GSM like AT&T, it will work fine?

Right!

Perfect!

Thanks for your help, I think that is all I wanted to ask.
Thank you for visiting the Apple Store. We appreciate your business. If you would like more help, please chat with us again.
Have a great day!

Mar 4, 2011 8:26 AM in response to No1 Rudeboy

No1 Rudeboy wrote:
I'm from the UK and in the same boat as yourself... But I just had an idea that might help everyone! Don't quote me on it but I was thinking, apple has an international warranty for one year with all there products. So if your device 'stops working' or you meet/know a really nice person in your LOCAL apple store, even if that is in a different country since you're within 28 days of purchase, wouldn't you be entitled for an exchange? Or at least a swap from the genius bar. Wouldn't you then be given a 'local' iPad for the country your in that will work on your selected provider? It's just a thought, not 100% that it will work, but I don't see why not... Get back to me with your thoughts...



Apple doesn't have international warranty on all of it's products. iPhone for one... doesn't.

Mar 4, 2011 8:42 AM in response to abraxis

Cnet reports that the iPad 2 is unlocked:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-30686_3-20039034-266.html

No one on the Internet has reported that the iPad 2 is locked. Apple sends Apple products to columnist to evaluate, well before release dates. No reports from them. If it was locked we would have heard if it is so. And we would have heard it at Wednesday keynote.

Why would Apple keep this a secret and make people wait for March 11 to find out. Does not make sense.

Mar 4, 2011 11:18 AM in response to David M Brewer

I spoke to Apple rep Brittani W. here is my conversation
Hi, my name is Brittani W. Welcome to Apple!

Brittani W: Hi! Welcome to Apple chat! How are you today?

You: Goo morning

You: I am ok, yourself?]

Brittani W: I am great thanks!

Brittani W: Good morning!

You: I have a question about Ipad2

Brittani W: I would love to help you with the iPad 2!

You: I currently own Ipad (1) and constantly travel around eastern europe, especially Russia. With the old one I am able to use 3G by changing SIM card of that region. Will I be able to do the same with Ipad 2?

Brittani W: Currently we do not have enough specifics on the iPad 2 to know this. I recommend contacting your service provider.

You: Ok.

You: My question then will new Ipad be locked to specific carriers like AT & T or Verizon or with AT&T version (GSM) I will be able to use any GSM SIM card?

Brittani W: Yes the iPad 2 will be able to be used on AT&T or Verizon only.

You: On Apple website specifically stated two options GSM and Verizon. My understanding is that GSM version will be open to any GSM network not AT&T only

Brittani W: This may be correct. However, we have not been given enough specifics to know this. This is a question for Technical Support.

Brittani W: If you would like technical support for your Apple product, you can contact AppleCare or visit your local Apple Store to speak with one of our Apple Geniuses.

Brittani W: As an Apple Online Sales Representative, I provide recommendations regarding products on our Apple Online Store. I also assist with the Apple Online Store Order process.

You: Do you think they will know the answer by now?

You: I am just trying to make a decision if I should go to stay in line on March 11

Brittani W: This is very possible. It would not hurt to try!

Brittani W: I understand!

Brittani W: I would have asked the same!

Brittani W: The number for AppleCare is 1-800-275-2273.

Brittani W: Click here for a list of Apple Stores.

You: Thank you,

Brittani W: Sure thing!

Brittani W: Is there anything else I can do?

You: No thank you

Brittani W: I am so glad I could help you! Have a blessed day!

Mar 4, 2011 10:32 PM in response to David M Brewer

-> One (1) Year Limited Warranty - Worldwide

" *OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE*


If the product is portable, meaning that it can operate independently without a power cord, you may obtain warranty service worldwide. However, service will be limited to the options available in the country where service is requested. If the product is not portable, warranty service may be restricted to the country where the product is purchased."

Mar 4, 2011 11:59 PM in response to abraxis

Hi
I'd also like to know if I can use a US-iPad in Europe but would like to add another question: I don't want to get a separate contract for the iPad (too expensive) but would just like to swap my microSim (from a Swiss carrier) from the iphone to use in the ipad at times. I don't really need 3G on the iPad on a constant basis; just from time to time. Would that be possible as well?
Thanks!

iPad2 3G SIM unlocked?

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