SIM cards have begun to be introduced into some versions of the iPad. This is convenient and gives the user some functions:
- Use a navigator;
- Constant access to the Internet;
- Distributing a signal to other devices;
- Use your tablet like a phone.
An iPad with a SIM card is a multifunctional device.
This is convenient for motorists, as an iPad with mobile communications can be used for navigation. It initially contains a module for GPS communication with a satellite. But such a signal is not enough for comfortable use. It is better to add a mobile connection to the GPS. This will result in the most efficient device for receiving GPS communications.
In cases where the user works on a tablet, he will also need a SIM card in the gadget. If the iPad is used to work with photo editors, or type text on it, the Internet will be necessary for maximum comfort. This way you can work from anywhere, even if there is no Wi-Fi.
When the user does not have cable Internet at home, the tablet can be used to distribute wireless Internet. This is called modem mode. For normal functioning of the mode, you need to have at least a 3G network. If the requirement is feasible, you can enable this option so that your computer, laptop and other devices can connect to the Wi-Fi that comes from the tablet. This is ideal not only for home, but also for company. But pay attention - some providers do not allow you to distribute mobile Internet, and if you continue to do this, the card may be blocked.
Main difference
The main difference between a device without Cellular (iPad Wi-Fi) and with Cellular (iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular). That the first type has only a Wi-fi network available to access the Internet, while the second type, in addition to the standard Wi-fi network, also has 3G and 4G networks. Thus, having an iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular, you can access the Internet using 3G and 4G networks without being tied to a Wi-Fi access point.
As you probably already understood, iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular has a SIM card slot. It is the SIM card that allows you to work with 3G and 4G networks.
What is eSIM
While the traditional cardboard SIM option was highlighted on older iPads, eSIM is all the rage now. With this technology we are trying to change the world of communications, since it allows us a completely virtual SIM card . By this we mean that there is no need to put any type of cardboard with a chip in the iPad, but that the configuration will be carried out independently.
You could say that the card is integrated into a chip inside the iPad. It is then up to the operators to offer data plans for this equipment to stay connected at all times. In this sense, Apple has created a website where we can consult operators in your country who offer this service. In the case of Spain we are well served as we can use Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, Yoigo...
We must distinguish eSIM from Apple SIM . The latter are integrated modules that will allow us to contract different data plans from the iPad itself without having to go to the operator. With eSIM, this concept has changed because we will connect with the company as if it were a mobile phone, except that we will not have a traditional SIM card.
Visual differences
In addition to the main differences between the two versions of the iPad: without Cellular (iPad Wi-Fi) and with Cellular (iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular), these two models also have visual differences. With these differences, you can easily distinguish between the two models.
The Cellular model of the iPad tablet computer has a black (sometimes white) plastic cover on top of the back cover. Behind this cover there is an antenna with the help of which data is transmitted and received in 3G and 4G networks.
With this clear difference in the appearance of the two devices, you can easily distinguish one from the other. Below you can see the images: on the left - iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular, on the right - iPad Wi-Fi
.
Price
The difference between the two versions of the iPad tablet computer: without Cellular (iPad Wi-fi) and with Cellular (iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular) is not only the presence of 3G and 4G networks and visual differences. There are also differences in the price of the devices. Devices with Cellular are much more expensive than devices without Cellular
. Therefore, when choosing the iPad version, think about whether you need Cellular and whether it is worth overpaying for it.
That's all for today, I hope you know what Cellular is and how the iPad version with Cellular differs from the version without Cellular. I would be grateful if you leave your opinion about this short material in the comment form below.
When choosing a tablet, it is very important to pay close attention to all its technical features, so that later you do not regret wasting money, since the device will not perform the functions you need. There can be a lot of them and it can be very difficult for an untrained user to understand them. For example, one of the characteristics of the iPad is the presence of the Cellular module. What it is? What is the translation of this term? What is the purpose of this function? Let's look at these questions in today's article.
When choosing a tablet, it is difficult for users to decipher all the technical characteristics of the gadget
You've probably heard that almost every tablet can be of two modifications - with the ability to connect a SIM card and only with Wi-Fi. The Cellular prefix just indicates the ability to work in cellular networks. Cellular from English has the translation “cellular”. That is, if you come across this term in the characteristics of a new and not very new iPad, know that its translation into Russian indicates the ability to insert a SIM card and work in the network of a cellular operator.
Why the iPad was renamed
Previously, a couple of years ago, all iPad tablets were called iPad Wi-Fi + 4G. Why are they now called iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular? Fourth generation communications (4G) have several standards: LTE or LTE Advanced, which is very popular in many countries, and rather little-known WiMAX. Both technologies make it possible to obtain enormous network access speeds, reaching 100 Mbit/s or more. Russian operators promise Internet speeds of up to 350 megabits! Not everyone has the opportunity to get such speed even through a cable.
But today everything is so good, and at the time of the release of the iPad with the Cellular module, new generation networks were fully operational only in the USA and Canada. In other countries, such coverage was either absent altogether, or its operating frequencies were in a range unsupported by the new tablet. It turns out that when purchasing a device with 4G, users simply could not use this same 4G! Many users had to use 3G communications, or even 2G. At the same time, they felt that they had been deceived and paid for a feature that could not be used. It is for this reason that iPad Wi-Fi + 4G was renamed iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular, the generally accepted translation of which into Russian is “cellular”.
Over time, Apple tablets have acquired support for more. Now they can be used almost anywhere in the world.
Advantages of iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular and how it differs from regular iPad
Absolutely every iPad tablet, regardless of the presence of a Cellular module, has the ability to connect to a Wi-Fi network. You simply find the name of the connection you are interested in in the list of available access points, enter the password if required, and connect. Usually, using Wi-Fi does not require additional financial costs, except that if you connect at home, you will have to spend money on buying a router. The only downside is that you are tied to the router's coverage area, which is usually about 10–20 meters. Well, there may not be a free Wi-Fi access point everywhere where you may need access to.
This is where the Cellular module of the tablet comes to the rescue. By simply inserting a SIM card and completing a simple setup, you can use high-speed Internet on the network of your mobile operator. LTE coverage in Russia is already quite extensive, it is available in most large cities, and the 3G network is present almost everywhere. In addition, Internet tariffs are becoming very affordable, and many subscribers use cellular Internet as their main connection.
Externally, iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular is practically no different from a regular tablet without a cellular module. Only on the rear panel at the top of the case there is an additional plastic insert. This solution improves the stability of signal reception, since the all-metal housing reflects it. A nano-SIM slot appears on the side. Older models can use a larger micro-SIM.
What devices support a SIM card
All of the company's tablet devices support mobile communications and can use the card to make calls on the networks of various operators. This applies to all models currently available on the site.
List of models of all generations that support SIM cards:
- iPad Pro;
- iPad Air;
- iPad\iPad Mini.
You can find out this information directly when purchasing the tablet, in the technical documentation for it (supplied in the original configuration) or on the company’s official website.
Requirements for SIM cards
Most modern Apple devices work with SIM cards like:
- Nano-SIM;
- eSIM;
- Apple SIM (supplied).
In Russia, eSIM technology is just beginning to develop, but eSIM is not yet in use because it does not comply with security standards established by the state. Otherwise there are no restrictions.
You can get a SIM card of any format, including Micro- and Nano-SIM, from working telecom operators. All modern cards are supplied already cut, and the subscriber can choose what size is needed based on the technical requirements of the device.
If the subscriber has an old card of a regular format, you can contact any operator’s communication shop to have a specialist cut it to the required type.
If the SIM card was cut off on its own and the tablet does not see the SIM card even after rebooting, the problem is that it is damaged. Lack of communication with the card may also occur due to its inappropriate size.
Differences in hardware
Whether you choose a WiFi-only model or a WiFi + Cellular model, the size and design of the devices are almost identical to each other. With the exception of the SIM card slot on the Cellular model, you won't notice any difference between the devices until you dig deep into the iOS settings, where you'll find settings for the Cellular module, or until you completely disassemble the device itself on the details, among which you will find the radio module itself. It is under the hood of the devices that the main part of the differences between the models of this device lies.
You can see the differences between these two models in the table below.
In terms of use, there are radical differences between the two models. WiFi-only model
Designed for use at home, work, school, or anywhere else you have a reliable WiFi connection. If you're far from your regular Wi-Fi network, you'll need to find a public hotspot or use the mobile hotspot feature on your smartphone if you want to access the Internet. You can of course use your iPad device offline, but then you simply won't be able to play games or use those apps that require Internet access to access their content.
WiFi + Cellular model
is the polar opposite of the WiFi model. With the WiFi + Cellular model, you have the freedom to choose either a WiFi connection at home or work, or switch to cellular when you're out and about. As long as your iPad has access to a cellular data plan, switching between Wi-Fi and cellular connections happens seamlessly. From the comfort of your car, you can grab your iPad without worrying about internet access because it will connect to your carrier's wireless network in less than a minute.
Some events in the history of eSIM development
November 2010
-
GSMA
(the trade body that represents mobile phone operators around the world and sets industry standards) discusses programmable SIM card capabilities.
May 2012
- The European Commission selected the Embedded UICC format for its in-vehicle emergency call service known as
eCall
.
September 2017
- Apple implemented eSIM support in its
third series Apple Watch
and
second generation iPad Pro
.
October 2017
- Release of
Microsoft Surface Pro
, which also supports eSIM.
October 2017
- Google introduced
the Pixel 2
, which added eSIM support for use with the Google Fi service.
February 2019
-
Samsung Galaxy Fold
(released in September).
The LTE model supports eSIM. December 2019
- International virtual operator
MTX Connect
becomes Apple's global eSIM partner.
How about the Internet sharing option?
This option allows you to connect your iPad to your smartphone and share the phone's cellular connection as a gateway to the Internet. On iPhone devices, this “Personal Hotspot” option is located in the settings. Once connected to the network, you can use your iPad online as long as your phone has cellular access and enough battery power to support the connection. I've used Internet sharing a lot on my current iPad Air, and it works well as long as you're patient. It's no coincidence that I mentioned patience here, since the connection takes about a minute to activate and can be interrupted if you accidentally move too far from your iPhone. Modem mode is suitable for short-term access, but is not suitable for long-term use. Depending on your tariff plan. Most Russian cellular providers provide this option for free.
Set up a data plan on iPad
Overall, eSIM configuration is very simple on our iPad. It's obviously easier to open the corresponding slot to insert a traditional card, but the digital process has made it much easier. Most operators will send you a simple QR code when you sign up for an eSIM plan. This is the key you should use to set up a new data connection by following these steps:
- On iPad, go to Settings > Mobile Data.
- Click on "Add Mobile Data Plan".
- Use your iPad camera to scan the QR code provided by your operator.
- Enter the confirmation code that the operator sent you.
Once this is done, the setup is complete and you can start using data as if it were an iPhone. Keep in mind that these eSIMs are disposable on most operators. This means that if you want to replace it with another device, you must request a new one and deactivate the plan you have signed up for.
Who should buy a WiFi-only model?
The WiFi model is ideal for a user who spends most of his time in the area of a Wi-Fi network to access the Internet. That is, you always have access to a Wi-FI network: at home, at work or at school, and there is practically no need to use your iPad outside its coverage area. When you are outside the range of your usual Wi-Fi network, you can use public Wi-Fi network access points, or, if there are no obstacles, use the cellular network sharing option for a short time. If all this applies to you, then you can save RUB 10,000 by choosing the iPad Wi-Fi model.
Installing a SIM card
After this, the card of the required size must be carefully inserted into the tray. There are always special marks on it to help you install it in the correct position. Detailed instructions on which cards are suitable for the purchased version of the tablet are always presented in the technical documentation.
You can also view this on the official Apple website by selecting your tablet model and comparing the data in the summary table.
Who should buy the Wi-Fi + Cellular (4G) model?
If you are a user who is always on the go, then you should think about purchasing an iPad model that has a cellular radio module. You will immediately pay a large amount of money for such a model, and you will also pay a monthly subscription fee, but you will always have the ability to connect to the Internet anywhere and anywhere where a cellular signal is received. Using your iPad on cellular networks is easy—just turn on your device, open a browser window, and get started. The connection is established immediately and the device remains connected as long as you are in an area with reliable reception of a signal with a high level of power.
Interview with Ilya Balashov
Ilya Balashov - co-founder of the virtual cellular operator MTX Connect
eSIM - is it an evolution or a revolution?
An evolution, and a very delayed one, which no one on the market expected or is expecting.
The classic plastic SIM card of the decade personified the connection between the operator and the subscriber. And operators are more than happy with this situation.
Will regular removable SIM cards become a relic in the medium term? Will eSIM supplant them?
No, they won't! The ecosystem is controlled by operators and they are less interested than all other participants (such as phone/device vendors, end users/subscribers, regulators, etc.) in eSIM becoming widespread.
Currently, only one phone manufacturer produces and sells eSIM devices across all of its sales channels as a primary product for the masses - and that's Apple!
All other devices (Microsoft with Surface Table, Google with Pixel, Samsung with Fold) are niche products that are either not sold through operators at all, or sales volumes are very small.
Apple is the only company on the market that not only has its own vision of the product, but also sufficient market power to tell operators: “If you don’t like phones with eSIM, you don’t have to sell them!”
In order for plastic SIM cards to stop occupying more than 90% of the market, not only support from other phone manufacturers is needed.
All vendors (except Apple) are very dependent in their sales channels on operators who tell all vendors - “We will not sell phones with eSIM for the mass market.”
Despite the fact that Russia (and almost the entire CIS) is an independent distribution market, operators in these regions have a great influence on it.
How much faster is “esimization” happening in the world than in Russia? Are we far behind?
No mobile operator in the world is interested in promoting eSIM, no matter what they publicly say about it.
Moreover, eSIM platform providers say that operators’ plans for the number of eSIM activations differ from actual use by tens of times!
According to various estimates, less than 5% of iPhones with eSIM support have downloaded at least one eSIM at least once during their lifetime.
Russia is lagging behind in that even government agencies cannot yet decide how to approach this phenomenon (eSIM)! This means that no one can take any further steps.
Countries in the Middle East, India and Asia introduced fairly strict eSIM regulations for operators, but they were clear from day one and operators could decide whether they wanted to follow them or not.
And in China, for example, they are testing their own eSIM ecosystem, which, although it will be similar to the one that exists throughout the world, will nevertheless be completely isolated from it. We think that in 2020-21, Chinese smartphones with support for the Chinese version of eSIM will arrive in Russia through AliExpress, and buyers will be disappointed in this technology due to complete incompatibility.
What new challenges are expected in the near future?
It is possible that additional market segmentation will soon emerge between companies that rely on long-term relationships with their subscribers and various eSIM sellers who, in fact, are competitors of SIM card points at airports.
In the case of SIM, the subscriber returns to the mobile operator again and again. Operators are not interested in selling an eSIM to a client and forgetting about it.
And it is very possible that there is a situation that currently exists in the market for selling disposable SIM cards for tourists (on Ebay, TaoBao, AliExpress) - when, under the guise of a 10GB package, they sell 4GB (and sometimes 1GB) first at full speed, and then, as they do do, without warning they reduce it to 128 kbit/s. And trust in the idea among ordinary people will fall!
What happens after eSIM?
Since we are at the very beginning of the development of the eSIM ecosystem, I think that in the next 5-7 years eSIM will develop, both from a technical and organizational point of view.
And talking about what will happen next is 100% fortune-telling or fantasies on a given topic.
