14 DAY TRIAL // Cupertino-based company Apple unveiled to the world about a week ago its first tablet, the iPad, when it announced that the device is compatible with micro SIM cards, and now we learn that various carriers around the world are gearing up for providing SIM cards for the iPad. Among the wireless operators that are interested in making the move, we can count UK's O2 and Orange, as well as AT&T in the United States.
The micro SIM cards are smaller cards than the mini SIMs that we all use in our handsets. The micro SIMs are smaller than the standard cards, as the piece of plastic they sport is no larger than the chip itself. For the time being, it seems that there are no details available on why Apple decided to go for this type of SIM cards with the newly launched iPad, but the decision might have been influenced by the idea of using the smallest technologies possible for the device.
While O2, Orange and, presumably, AT&T are rumored to be stacking up micro SIM cards for inclusion in the iPad, so as to offer access to their 3G networks for those who purchase the device, it should be noted that the tablet is set to arrive without the 3G connectivity option on board in the beginning. It should land so in March, but Apple promised that the 3G-enabled version would arrive no later than April.
The rumors on carriers looking forward to having the iPad available on their networks with 3G connectivity on board is confirmed by Gemalto, at least when it comes to UK's O2 and Orange. The company says that it will deliver micro SIMs to these wireless operators, and rumors say that it is providing the cards to T-Mobile and AT&T too.
O2 is the carrier that secured the iPhone exclusively for the UK market a few years ago, and has recently announced that it managed to sell 2 million units to its customers. The carrier is still aiming at tightening its relationship with Apple, and the launch of iPad on its network, although unconfirmed, is highly likely.