Maybe I'm horribly misinformed, but aren't you losing the ability to use the 3G on the 3G model by purchasing the U.S. Version? Seems to me like you are avoiding VAT and losing functionality.
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Brit Barred from Buying?
- Thread starter Ulsterscot
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No, the 3G model is unlocked. So he can use his U.K. MicroSim. He might lose the ability to sign up for the service from the device. Not sure though.
That's a good question. How will you get the Activate Cellular Data screen to switch from AT&T to your nation's carrier?
iPad can use both the US and UK 3G frequencies.
From Tech Specs: UMTS/HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz)
US uses 850 & 1900, UK 2100MHz
I think the point is, he'll be on vacation, and wants to get it early for use on the vacation. Maybe?
I had no problems buying an iPad in Florida Mall, using a British iTunes account to order it and then paying for it with a British Credit Card.
Remember that the personal limit for returning with items outside the EEC is £390.
Chris
Remember that the personal limit for returning with items outside the EEC is £390.
Chris
I am coming to the States next week and thought I would pick up a 3G iPad while I was there.
However, I called ahead and have been told by a store employee that they are nor allowed to sell to folks from the UK until after the UK launch date - and that I won't be able to buy a 3G model anyway because of the link with AT&T.
Surely that is nonsense? After all, there is no contract involved, so it is just like buying a laptop or iPod. Even the Apple site makes it clear that you could buy a 3G model and never sign up for service!
Has anyone else heard anything similar?
Total rubbish.
When I was at the 14th St. store a week ago almost half the line at the register were foreigners buying ipads.
This sounds about right. Although, I did read about a French guy who lives in the US who was turned away from buying an iPad on launch day. It's stupid if they do turn anyone away really. Even if they won't sell it, it seems a bit petty that they are stopping you buing because the UK launch is a few days away.
I hadn't felt that this would be problem, as the device is essentially generic and the SIM just slots in - but has anyone else imported and used a MicroSIM or cannibalised ordinary SIM yet?
Will do. I still intend to try in Charleston and at Best Buy if that doesn't work out.
Thanks for all the help.
I bought a wifi ipad from this store using a UK credit card with no difficulty whatsoever.
It came home with me and another ipad that I had had delivered to my hotel on launch day awaiting my arrival the next day - also on a UK card!
Presumably the 2nd one was also WiFi only and I think that the store employee I spoke to was perhaps more concerned with the 3G models - although she told me there was a blanket ban!
It sounds pretty hopeful that I'll get one in Orlando or Charleston - but I am just hoping that the stock levels are okay!
Presumably the 2nd one was also WiFi only and I think that the store employee I spoke to was perhaps more concerned with the 3G models - although she told me there was a blanket ban!
It sounds pretty hopeful that I'll get one in Orlando or Charleston - but I am just hoping that the stock levels are okay!
I bought two 3G iPads in the Apple store, Fifth Avenue three weeks ago with no problems at all. The helpful sales chap even activated one of them there and then. I didn't sign up to AT&T and on returnn to the UK I bought a Vodafone dongle, took the SIM out, pared it down to MicroSIM size and have been using that without issue. (NB, use a laptop register the dongle with Vodafone before you pare it down!)
Thanks - that's exactly what I wanted to hear. Stock levels will hopefully be the only problem then - but if they won't flog me one in the Apple Store, I'll be straight on here to post.
Stock levels will likely be a big problem! None of my local, 4 in the Atlanta area, Apple Stores have any 3Gs in stock and haven't since the launch weekend. However, you can reserve one by phone for in-store pickup. I'm guessing it would be 7-10 days wait--same as if one ordered on-line.
Just book into as many Apple stores that you can get back to within 24 hours (remembering that you are on holiday) and keep your fingers crossed that something comes in.
Best of luck.
Best of luck.