iPads - Are they locked to a particular mobile network?

Gloomendoom

I know nothing about iPads but may be acquiring one soon. I was wondering if iPads are locked to a particular network or is it possible to chop and change when using abroad or to take advantage of the best current data only deal.

TIA

bod1467

Originally (as I understand), the 3G-capable devices were locked to O2 as they were the only network with a license to provide mobile network connectivity. Nowadays I think it depends on where you buy it from - if buying from Apple I don't think there's any network lock now.

If it's NOT a mobile-network-capable device (i.e. wifi-only) then it CANNOT be locked to a network.

InsideInsurance

Its the same as the iPhone. If its bought from Apple or full price paid then its unlocked. If its bought as part of a contract at a subsidized price then its locked to that network and can be unlocked by the network. At end of contract this is free but most will charge if done early or if it was on a PAYG contract

Gloomendoom

Thanks.

I dimly remember reading somewhere that the Apple devices becomes locked to the first network that they are registered with.

That may be out of date... or just my bad memory. :think:

googler

Got mine through Amazon, walked into Orange shop a few days later, and bought a data SIM/contract for it.

Haven't tried any other SIMs

Handsome90

Gloomendoom wrote: »

Thanks.

I dimly remember reading somewhere that the Apple devices becomes locked to the first network that they are registered with.

That may be out of date... or just my bad memory. :think:

That's when you buy it from Carphone Warehouse. It's totally misleading and don't know how they get away with it.