Apple's newly-introduced open-to-all-networks SIM card for new iPads does not support interchangeability of networks when used on AT&T.
Apple's undergoing massive product changes, ranging from boosting screen sizes in iPhones and the arrival of the Apple SIM in new iPads. The latter is a great addition to the iPad segment, as it is the first to support any carrier of buyer's choice. Apple SIM opens new window of opportunity for consumers to pay full price for the device and seamlessly switch from network to network without any bounds. In the United States, all major carriers have offered support for the Apple SIM, but AT&T brings a slight modification.
MacRumors reported Friday that the nation's second largest wireless carrier will lock the Apple SIM to its network when users sign up for a service. Apple also confirmed the news in a support document updated Friday.
"Using Apple SIM, you can choose from different cellular carriers and their various programs. The data plans vary by carrier," the document reads. "For instance, in the United States, you can choose a domestic plan from either Sprint or T-Mobile and also pick an alternate plan from the other carrier as needed. When you choose AT&T on iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3, AT&T dedicates Apple SIM to their network only."
Other carriers have offered open support to Apple SIM, with T-Mobile's flamboyant CEO John Legere compared its working system against Sprint's error page and locked SIMs with AT&T. The largest wireless carrier in the United States, Verizon has stayed out of support for the Apple SIM.
Apple introduced its universal SIM alongside the iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3 last Thursday. The SIM is designed to work across multiple carriers. However, AT&T users will have to choose a long route to switch carriers by getting a new SIM card from Apple, Re/Code confirmed via an AT&T spokesperson.
"With us you can change carriers with this iPad any time you want," the company spokesperson said. "It is an unlocked device. ... All [you] have to do is switch out the SIM in the device so it works on another carrier."
