New iPad Won’t Support European LTE Networks

Several reports that surfaced during the days preceding Apple’s latest iPad event suggested that while the U.S. would get LTE connectivity in the new device, it would be stripped out for those in Europe, where LTE networks are yet to launch.

To everyone’s surprise, Apple left the LTE chip in for us Europeans. But the problem is it won’t support European LTE networks.

The 4G iPad that became available to Europeans through the Apple online store yesterday is the same model that was built for AT&T in the U.S., compatible with 700MHz and 2100MHz LTE bands. However, the LTE networks that will start rolling out in Europe later this year are expected to use the 800MHz, 1800MHz, and 2600MHz cellular bands.

That means that if you buy the 4G iPad now in the hope you’ll be able to use it on a 4G network in Europe when one arrives, you’re probably going to be disappointed with your purchase. Of course, you’ll still get 3G connectivity, but if you want to see a 4G logo in your iPad’s status bar, you’ll have to hop on a plan to the U.S. and stick an AT&T micro SIM into it.

This may not be a problem for you if you’re a frequent visitor to the U.S., but I’m guessing that for most people who pre-ordered the 4G device in Europe yesterday, it’ll be disappointing news.

If you pre-ordered a 4G iPad for Europe, how do you feel about this news?

• Via SlashGear

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