If I purchase a Wi-Fi + 3G model of the iPad 2 in the U.S., can I use the 3G service outside of the U.S.? If so, in which countries and how would I go about doing so? For what it's worth, I am specifically interested in using the iPad 2 in Japan.
My question is related to Will an iPad 2 3G from UK work on a Poland's (or another country's) 3G network? I was a bit troubled by the following quote in the answer.
The broader situation is that the only problematic (less interoperable) 3G iPad is the Verizon-specific model sold in the USA
Does this mean that any iPad 2 purchased in the U.S. is incompatible with 3G service abroad?
Best Answer
A GSM iPad should work in any country where GSM carriers operate and offer data plans.
mobileworldlive.com is a great resource. They have a list which is up-to-date with live and planned availability as well as supported frequencies.
Of course you can use your iPad in any country where your carrier has roaming agreements. But at a very high rate. And you might have to call your carrier in advance to activate the option. But this will cost you much more than getting your data access from a local carrier.
If you chose to get your data access from a local carrier here are a few things to consider:
No. The GSM version (AT&T) will work in most countries. The same cannot be said of the CDMA version (Verizon).
Wikipedia tels us the iPad supports UMTS / HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz) GSM / EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
Two networks are referenced as providing support for GSM based 3G in japan :
Note: I would recommend a 3rd party solution if you go abroad for a short period of time. There are mobile WiFi modems like the huawei-mifi-e585 that could offer a better alternative if you need internet access on more than one device at a time.