Ditching the familiar SIM tray, Apple ushers in a new era of streamlined connectivity for its tablets. Borrowing a page from the iPhone playbook, the 2024 iPad Pro and Air go all-in on eSIM technology for their cellular models.
This shift signifies a major step for Apple, not only for its iPad line but also for consistency across its flagship devices. By embracing eSIM technology, Apple offers a potentially sleeker design for its iPads and eliminates the need for users to juggle physical SIM cards when switching between devices or carriers.
Of course, this move might require some adjustments for users accustomed to physical SIMs, but it also paves the way for a more seamless mobile experience within the Apple ecosystem.
2024 iPad Pro and iPad Air join the trend of using eSIMs
While the iPhone 15 Pro series in some regions still offers a physical SIM slot, Apple’s taking a different approach with its latest iPads. Both the M4 iPad Pros and M2 iPad Airs globally ditch the physical SIM tray entirely, relying solely on eSIM technology for cellular connectivity.
This is evident on Apple’s iPad listings in the EU and UK, where physical SIM compatibility is conspicuously absent.
This shift from Apple is likely to expedite its global transition to eSIM, especially in major markets.
For iPads, the move to eSIM connectivity holds more advantages than for iPhones. Unlike smartphones, iPads are typically used with a single carrier for an extended period. This makes frequent SIM card swaps unnecessary.
Furthermore, eSIM technology simplifies managing multiple cellular plans on an iPad. When traveling, users can easily activate a local eSIM plan alongside their existing one, allowing them to stay connected without physically switching cards.
This flexibility makes eSIM a potentially stronger option for tablet users compared to iPhone users who might require more frequent carrier changes.
The shift to eSIM in iPads isn’t without drawbacks. Carriers who haven’t embraced eSIM technology yet could leave some users in a bind. This situation might actually act as a catalyst, pushing these carriers to adopt eSIM more readily.
After all, with Apple, a major industry leader, moving towards eSIM-only models, it could become the standard for future devices, pressuring carriers to adapt and offer eSIM support to stay competitive.
New iPads no longer include Apple stickers
In addition to the absence of a physical SIM slot, the 2024 iPads no longer come with Apple stickers. Although not addressed during the “Let Loose” event, Apple informed its store employees of this change through a memo, as reported by 9to5Mac.
The decision to remove the stickers aims to make the iPad’s packaging more environmentally friendly and align with Apple’s sustainability goals.
While the iconic Apple sticker might be absent from the packaging of the latest iPad Pros and iPad Airs, die-hard fans can rejoice! Apple Stores are reported to have a limited supply of these classic giveaways on hand.
Customers can request a sticker from store employees when purchasing a new iPad, ensuring their new device gets the official Apple stamp of approval. However, it’s important to note that this perk seems to be exclusive to in-store purchases at Apple itself.
Those opting to grab their new iPad from a third-party retailer might miss out on this opportunity. So, if the Apple sticker is a must-have for you, be sure to head straight to your nearest Apple Store when picking up your new iPad Pro or iPad Air. Just remember, quantities are limited, so act fast!
