Apple Launches iPads with TD-LTE Connectivity in China

Apple today announced that customers in China can now buy LTE-enabled iPad Air and iPad mini models starting at 4,488 (RMB) / $722.71 (US) / €524.65, and 3,788 (RMB) / $609.99 / €442.82, respectively.

The new iPads join existing cellular models to be the latest-generation of tablets that support China’s TD-LTE wireless standard. According to the California-based computer vendor, “The new iPad models give customers the ability to connect to today’s most advanced cellular data networks at blazingly fast speeds, so users can surf the web or download email and apps even faster.”

The press release (embedded below) doesn’t come with any official statements from Apple’s executive team, but it does beat the drum about the new iPads’ cellular connectivity.

The Mac maker reveals that both models join an existing lineup of cellular iPads in China “to provide customers in China fast cellular access in whichever iPad model they choose,” including GSM/EDGE, DC-HSDPA, and HSPA+.

Featuring a 9.7-inch Retina display in a very thin and light chassis, the iPad Air is Apple’s flagship tablet. Introduced last year, the device borrows the design of the iPad mini, which launched a year before.

iPad mini with Retina display is the second-generation of mini tablet computers from Apple, and it too sports the latest cellular connectivity standards, as well as powerful WiFi. Both tablets boast an advertised 10-hour battery life. Real-life tests have shown that both tablets can easily exceed Apple’s claimed mileage by several hours, even without optimum settings (i.e. low brightness).

Both tablets also ship with iOS 7 pre-installed and access to over 500,000 apps designed specifically for iPads, according to Apple. Most iPhone apps are also compatible, and there are over a million different apps available in the App Store for all iDevice models.

iPad Air with WLAN + Cellular models supporting TD-LTE join existing iPad Air WLAN + Cellular models in China and start at 4,488 (RMB) / $722.71 (US) / €524.65 for the 16GB model.

Similarly, iPad mini with Retina display WLAN + Cellular models supporting TD-LTE join existing cellular models and start at 3,788 (RMB) / $609.99 / €442.82 for the 16GB model. Prices go up in accordance with the desired storage capacity for each iPad.

Apple also recently downgraded its fourth-gen iPad to entry-level status, giving it a more affordable price tag. China is also getting it, according to today’s announcement. The iPad with Retina display sells for 2,888 (RMB) / $465.06 / €337.61. Chinese customers can visit Apple's online store to learn more about each product in part and order their preferred model.