Set up cellular service on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models)

: June 7, 2024
: Apple

Table of Contents

Set up cellular service on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models)

Set up cellular service on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models)

If you have a Wi-Fi + Cellular model, you can sign up for a cellular data plan. This helps you stay connected to the internet when you’re away from a Wi-Fi network. Contact your carrier to set up a cellular data plan.

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation) and iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation) can connect to 5G networks. See the Apple Support article Use 5G with your iPad.

The cellular connection requires a SIM from your carrier. iPad supports the following types of SIM:

eSIM (on iPad models that support eSIM; not available in all countries or regions)
Embedded Apple SIM or Apple SIM card
Physical nano-SIM from your carrier

Set up your cellular plan with eSIM

On models that support eSIM, you can activate the cellular service from your iPad. You may also be able to travel abroad with iPad and sign up for cellular service with a local carrier in the country or region you’re visiting. This option isn’t available in all countries or regions, and not all carriers are supported.

Go to Settings > Cellular Data.
Do one of the following:
- To set up the first cellular plan on your iPad, select a carrier, then follow the onscreen instructions.
- To add another cellular plan to your iPad, tap Add a New Plan.
- To scan a QR code provided by your carrier, tap Other. Position iPad so that the QR code provided by your carrier appears in the frame, or enter the details manually. You may be asked to enter a confirmation code provided by your carrier.

Alternatively, you can activate your cellular plan through your carrier’s app (if supported). Go to the App Store, download your carrier’s app, then use the app to purchase a cellular plan.

You can store more than one eSIM on your iPad, but you can use only one eSIM at a time. To switch to another eSIM, go to Settings > Cellular Data, then tap the plan you want to use (below Cellular Plans).

Set up your cellular plan with an embedded Apple SIM or Apple SIM card

On models with an embedded Apple SIM or Apple SIM card, you can activate the cellular service from your iPad. You may also be able to travel abroad with iPad and sign up for cellular service with a local carrier in the country or region you’re visiting. This option isn’t available in all countries or regions, and not all carriers are supported.

Go to Settings > Cellular Data.
Tap Add a New Plan, then follow the onscreen instructions. You can choose a carrier and a plan, or you can add your iPad to an existing plan.

See the Apple Support article Set up cellular data service on your Wi-Fi + Cellular model iPad, or contact your carrier.

Install a nano-SIM

You can install an Apple SIM card or a nano-SIM provided by a carrier.

Insert a paper clip or SIM eject tool (not included) into the small hole of the SIM tray, then push in toward iPad to eject the tray.

Note: The shape and orientation of the SIM tray depend on the iPad model and your country or region.

Remove the tray from iPad.
Place the nano-SIM in the tray. The angled corner determines the correct orientation.
Insert the tray back into iPad.
If you previously set up a PIN on the nano-SIM, carefully enter the PIN when prompted.

WARNING: Never try to guess a SIM PIN. An incorrect guess can permanently lock your SIM, and you won’t be able to use cellular data through your carrier until you get a new SIM. See the Apple Support article Use a SIM PIN for your iPhone or iPad.

Cellular data requires a wireless data plan. If you’re using a third-party nano-SIM, contact your carrier to set up service.

Manage your cellular data service

Go to Settings > Cellular Data.
Do any of the following:
- Restrict all data to Wi-Fi: Turn off Cellular Data.
- Turn on or off LTE and roaming: Tap Cellular Data Options.
- Turn on Personal Hotspot: Tap Set Up Personal Hotspot (available from certain carriers), then follow the onscreen instructions.
- Manage your cellular account: Tap Manage [ account name ] or Carrier Services.

For information about managing your cellular data usage, see View or change cellular data settings on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models).

Important: When using cellular services through GSM networks, you need an eSIM, embedded Apple SIM, Apple SIM card, or third-party nano-SIM. When using cellular services through CDMA networks, you need an embedded Apple SIM, Apple SIM card, or third-party nano-SIM. Your iPad is subject to your wireless service provider’s policies, which may include restrictions on switching service providers and roaming, even after the conclusion of any required minimum service contract. Contact your wireless service provider for more details. The availability of cellular capabilities depends on the wireless network, your iPad model, and your location.