On occasion I work in an area that has poor Verizon coverage.
In most cases the Verizon iPad was the better bet for where I am, but
sometimes it would be nice to have AT&T service for a few days.
Fortunately the new 2012 Verizon iPads are network unlocked and
compatible with AT&T’s data service, and AT&T has prepaid
250MB/3GB/5GB data
plans
called the Prepaid DataConnect Pass. Here’s how you sign up:
- You’ll need Internet access to set up your Internet access. Your iPad
on wifi, another computer, a phone... anything with a decent web
browser will work.
- Get a micro SIM from your local AT&T store. Sadly this is the
most difficult step. AT&T’s website very clearly states that for new
DataConnect service “If an AT&T SIM card is needed, you can purchase
one at any AT&T retail
location”. But
trying to explain to a sales person that you need a SIM but don’t
already have an AT&T account can be difficult. After being very
persistant I was able to get one for free, but several store employees
tried to convince me they weren’t allowed to give SIMs to
non-customers and/or what I was attempting would never work. I
might’ve had better luck if I had just said I bought my iPad in
Europe.
- Use the SIM removal tool or a small paperclip to pop the SIM
tray out of your iPad. It’s on the upper left side.
- Replace the Verizon micro SIM with your shiny new AT&T micro SIM
- Go to Settings -> About and write down your IMEI and ICCID
- Go to buyasession.att.com and click
“Prepaid DataConnect Pass” using your other device (computer, phone,
whatever... your new SIM doesn’t work yet).
- Enter your IMEI and ICCID from above, along with a device
nickname. Click continue.
- I actually forget the specifics of the next screens, but my
recollection is that it’s just creating an account, adding your
billing info, and selecting a plan. It’s actually been a few weeks
since I went through the process. Doh!
- Once you’re done signing up, power off your iPad and power it back on.
You should now be on AT&T’s network. No APN or other setting changes
are required, it should Just Work(tm).