The 3G version of the Apple iPad will go on sale in the US tomorrow. When Apple announced the iPad, they also introduced some new data plans from AT&T that operate on a month-to-month basis, meaning you don’t have to commit to a long-term contract. This flexibility is particularly appealing for users who may not need constant data access or who prefer not to be tied down by lengthy agreements.
Basic Data Plan
The basic data plan for the iPad 3G will cost you $15 a month. For this price, you will receive 250MB of data and full access to all of AT&T’s WiFi hotspots. This plan is ideal for users who primarily use their iPad in WiFi-covered areas but still want the option to access data on the go occasionally.
AT&T will also notify you when you are nearing your data limit on the plan. Alerts will be sent when you have 20% and 10% of your data remaining. This feature helps users manage their data usage effectively and avoid unexpected charges. When you reach these thresholds, AT&T will allow you to add another 250MB of data for $15 or upgrade to the unlimited plan. Once you make this change, the 30-day cycle will restart.
Unlimited Data Plan
The second plan is an unlimited data plan, which costs $29.99 per month. For this price, you get unlimited data and access to AT&T’s WiFi hotspots. This plan is perfect for heavy data users who stream videos, download large files, or use their iPad extensively while on the move. The unlimited plan ensures that you won’t have to worry about data overages or constantly monitoring your usage.
One thing to bear in mind is that although the plans are on a month-to-month basis, they will automatically renew each month. This automatic renewal is convenient for continuous users but can be a drawback if you don’t plan to use the service every month. Therefore, if you decide you don’t need the data plan for a particular month, you will need to cancel it to avoid being charged.
Additional Considerations
When choosing between the basic and unlimited data plans, consider your typical data usage and how often you will be away from WiFi. For instance, if you primarily use your iPad at home or in places with WiFi, the basic plan might suffice. However, if you travel frequently or use data-intensive applications, the unlimited plan could be more cost-effective in the long run.
Moreover, AT&T’s WiFi hotspots can be a significant advantage. These hotspots are available in various public places such as cafes, airports, and hotels, providing an additional layer of connectivity without using your data allowance. This feature can be particularly beneficial for users on the basic plan, as it helps conserve their 250MB data limit.
In summary, the introduction of the 3G version of the Apple iPad and the accompanying AT&T data plans offer users flexibility and choice. Whether you opt for the basic plan at $15 per month or the unlimited plan at $29.99 per month, both options provide access to AT&T’s extensive network of WiFi hotspots. Just remember to monitor your data usage and be aware of the automatic renewal feature to avoid any unexpected charges.
AT&T (PDF) via Gizmodo
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