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The new iPad constantly losing cellular data connnection

My new iPad (3rd gen), 4G (AT&T) cannot seem to maintain a cellular data connection. The AT&T signal meter is still there (and shows 3 bars), but the "4G" disappears, and I get a "could not activate the cellular data network" error. I know it's not my location because it happens both at work and at home, and because my iPhone 4S and 1st gen iPad don't have the problem. I have already toggled cellular data on and off, restarted the iPad, reset network settings, and restarted again. No luck. Each time I restart, the connection works for about 30 seconds, and I can check my email, but then it immediately goes out again. Has anyone else had this problem?

iPad, iOS 5.1

Posted on Mar 19, 2012 1:50 PM

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606 replies

Apr 16, 2012 2:10 AM in response to JackCh3n

Same for my iPad 3 in Switzerland. Have been having this issue since day one.


No matter which SIM, carrier or country (for roaming) I use, issue remains.


My serial also starts with DLXH although I don't think this is the issue. I ready in a Swiss discussion board, the "Apple and the Carrier" seem to be aware that this is a Apple problem. The Swiss carrier and Apple seem to work on this.


Why the heck Apple does not launch an official statement about this worldwide issue? This is very poor. Bugs are normal. But please provide an official statement Apple that you are working on it. Hiding is the wrong communication strategy here.


Maybe we should all start for a weekly iPad replacement until the money loss of Apple get's so big so it has to state something.

Apr 16, 2012 2:17 AM in response to Burkow

So far so good. With "Play" SIM card - one of four carriers in Poland - evertything works perfect. I was traveling today across the city, switching from WIFI to cellular and back many times. iPad never lost connection. Even for a second. And it is all without the "PIN trick" or manual selecting carrier, without resets etc. I have no idea why with this particular carrier everything works ok and there is no this issue? With all other three carriers in Poland this issue reamains. My biggest problem is that my company useses different carrier (Plus) where I have big data plan and cannot use it becasue of this issue :(

Apr 17, 2012 3:51 AM in response to scholarwilliams

Provider: Bell

iPad, 3rd gen, 4G, 64Gig, black


Same issue here in Montreal Canada and I've tried the various solutions proposed in the previous 15 pages of this thread and although sometimes seems to provide some relief, the effect is always temporary and the original problem of losing mobile connectivity returns.


Currently trying the wifi off, cellular data on.


To do this , as outlined previously, do the following...


turn OFF wifi.

Turn OFF celular data.


Turn ON cellular data.


So far - past couple of hours - so good.


I noticed my LTE signal increased 2 bars after cellular data was turned back on.

Apr 17, 2012 4:24 AM in response to Chris F.

Same issue here since received, Switzerland, Swisscom carrier. iPad 3rd gen 64Gb black


Tried almost every trick that i could find in the multiples threads here but no one seems to improve the loose 3G connection.


Only solution is to reset the network settings and waiting for the reboot...


It would be nice if we could have a statement from Apple and to know if this issue is software or hardware related.


And a quick fix would be most welcome...


Apple Express lane told me yesterday to change the sim card...and to try with another WiFi router !!! Thanks I don't live in my bed and of course i connected already to many Wifi networks, heck what this mean and what's the point with cellular connection ? Are they even aware of this 3G-Edge issue at Express lane or not ?

Apr 17, 2012 8:14 AM in response to scholarwilliams

Mine does the exact same thing. I even doubt whether or not there is a 3G symbol...Cause I have never seen it. I have reset network settings twice and changed out sim card, did complete restore to factory settiings. Only other option is to exchange the IPAD...But I really don't think that is the solution....Someone please find out if this is software issue.


Thanks

Apr 17, 2012 8:26 AM in response to scholarwilliams

Same issue here in UK


I have resisted joining the rank of Apple iPad users for a long time but finally cracked and bought the 'flagship' 64gb wifi + 4g model 2 days ago - I am delighted by the design and general operation - but as with other users here already finding Apple to be 'wanting' in selling yet another product that isn't fully functional.


I am a firm believer ultimately in function over form - ie without the former the later is pointless.


To be honest in this day an age its unbelievable that anyone puts up with this. I own 3 Miele machines as have all my family, they are expensive but they work on average for 18 + years without fail exactly as the manufacturer states so are worth every penny spent.


Apple you have a long way to go before you convince me that you can actually make a trouble free product.


I really want to stick with this product but to be honest I am tempted to return it and get my money back.


Apologies for the rant - But baring in mind the shear cost of an iPad I just do not understand why any individual should put up with anything less than 100%

The new iPad constantly losing cellular data connnection

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