Apple’s 3G iPad Launches
With Apple stores all over the country closing for an hour today at 4PM local time expectations are high for long lines and sales of a device that is already exceeding many industry insiders lofty predictions. Stores are set to reopen at 5PM in order to deal with throngs of people said to be already lining up to make their purchase.
But these new devices do come with a price. The 3G iPad models carry a $130 premium over their Wi-Fi-only counterparts. The 16GB model starts at $629, the 32GB capacity is $729, and the high-end 64GB offering is $829.
However, the added functionality for many warrant this price increase. To me the idea of a wifi only device seriously limits the uses of this device and I expect huge sales beginning this evening.
But in addition to the added $130 customers will be forced to take on a data plan with AT&T. Unlike the iPhone though there will be no contract and users can upgrade or downgrade plans quite easily. Basic subscriptions will begin at $14.99 with users being capped at 250MB of data. Undoubtedly most will opt for the $29.99 unlimited data plans. Existing AT&T customers will also be given free access to AT&T’s wifi hotspots either in a magnanimous move or more likely in order to ease network traffic.
The biggest benefit to selecting a 3G equipped iPad is the many applications that utilize location services. Without the additional connectivity of the 3G network the iPad loses a huge amount of utility. Mapping applications and others that offer information based on location simply do not function without a 3G network.
All in all, I’ve waited and I believe a number of others have as well, anticipating the arrival of today’s offering. As much as most of the States wifi coverage increases the additional coverage has its advantages.
iPad 3G Launch News By App Chronicles
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