iPads with eSIM Support: All You Need to Know

Ever been in that situation where you’re suddenly left stranded without internet for your iPad because you just left the café you were in? 

If you answered yes, then don’t worry, you’re not alone. 

As technologically advanced and utilitarian as iPads are, they’re quite useless without a stable internet connection. 

To get a clearer picture, imagine Alex the Lion from the movie Madagascar at the Central Park Zoo vs. him in the wild. 

That’s your iPad with and without an internet connection. We’re not telling you that iPads are unusable without an internet connection. 

But an internet connection has become an essential in the modern world (like food, shelter, and clothes), and using an iPad only in areas with Wi-Fi just defeats the whole purpose of it. And that is where eSIMs for iPads come in. 

What is an eSIM? 

An eSIM is a digital version of the traditional physical SIM card. Modern mobile devices already have an eSIM inside them. You simply have to download an eSIM profile from a network operator to activate it. 

eSIMs are super beneficial to everyone, especially tourists. This is because it eliminates the need to switch SIM cards when they travel. All they have to do is get a travel eSIM, activate it, use the data, and deactivate it after their trip. 

And the best part? All of this can be done while you’re chilling on your sofa in your jammies. 

Top eSIM Plans for Travel & International Use

How is it Different from a Physical SIM? 

The major difference between a physical SIM and an eSIM is the plastic. Physical SIM cards are made of plastic and come in paper packaging. eSIMs are embedded in your smartphone. So, there’s no pollution or logistics involved. 

And, swapping out physical SIM cards is a major hassle. This is not the case with eSIMs, as you can switch between eSIM profiles in a few simple taps. 

Also, eSIMs are a sustainable alternative to physical SIM cards, as they don’t contribute to the piling plastic waste like discarded traditional SIM cards. 

Why Should You Use an eSIM with an iPad? 

Now that you know the benefits of an eSIM, it’s time to link it with an iPad. You might ask, “Why should I get an eSIM when I can use Wi-Fi?” There are three major reasons why you, as someone who uses an iPad, should consider eSIMs. 

1. Public Wi-Fi Isn’t Safe

Free Wi-Fi sounds cool on paper, but it isn’t a safe alternative to mobile data. 

You’re at risk of man-in-the-middle attacks, where a cybercriminal sets up a fake access point near a public Wi-Fi network, picks up legitimate requests from Wi-Fi devices, and transmits duplicate signals. This allows the cybercriminals to see the websites the user is visiting and access confidential information like passwords. 

2. Wi-Fi has a Limited Range

Range is a major drawback for Wi-Fi. The average Wi-Fi adapter has a range of approximately 50 metres. This, too, depends on whether the band is 2.5 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz. 

Sure, you can buy Wi-Fi extenders to improve the signal. But still, they don’t come close to the convenience offered by an eSIM. 

3. Wi-Fi is Prone to Power Outages

Wi-Fi is a fast and reliable source of internet, until there is a power outage. The moment the power goes out, you’ll be left without internet. 

This can be countered by connecting the Wi-Fi adapter to alternate power sources like battery backups (UPS), generators, or power banks. But it isn’t a feasible option when you have other essential devices that need power backup. 

An eSIM wins here as it remains unaffected during power outages. Your iPad not having sufficient battery is a different story. 

Can you get an eSIM for an iPad?

Yes, you can get an eSIM for an iPad. Most network operators only care about an eSIM compatible device and a stable internet connection to activate the eSIM. So, regardless of whether that eSIM-compatible device happens to be a smartphone or an iPad, you can go ahead and purchase an eSIM + plan bundle. 

eSIMs for iPads aren’t a new concept either. Most of the earlier versions of iPads came with eSIM support. So, it’s only fair that Apple continues the tradition with its more recent models. 

Which iPad models have eSIM?

Apple has been pioneering the eSIM technology, meaning that you shouldn’t be surprised even if the older versions of iPad came with eSIM support. Here is a table that lists the newer iPads that support eSIMs.

The older iPads with eSIM support are listed below:

• iPad Pro 11-inch (Gen 1 through 4) Wi-Fi + Cellular 
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (Gen 3 through 6) Wi-Fi + Cellular 
• iPad Air (Gen 3 through 5) Wi-Fi + Cellular 
• iPad (Gen 7 through 10) Wi-Fi + Cellular 
• iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi + Cellular 
• iPad mini (Gen 5 and 6) Wi-Fi + Cellular 

How to Add an eSIM Plan to an iPad?

Now that you’ve read a good chunk of information about eSIMs for iPads, it’s time to discuss how you can add one.

Note: iPads only accept eSIMs from a select few official Apple partners.

Step 1: Open the Settings app.

Step 2: Tap on Cellular Data / Mobile Service.

Step 3: Under "CELLULAR PLANS", select Add a New Plan

Step 4: Select Add a New Plan

Step 5: Choose your desired carrier and follow the instructions to add the eSIM plan to your iPad

Final Thoughts

eSIMs are becoming quite popular, and iPads are joining in on the party as well. Modern iPads come with the option to add eSIMs so that users don’t have to rely on Wi-Fi for connectivity. 

As reliable as Wi-Fi is, it has its issues. Range is a popular one. Then there are the security issues with public Wi-Fi. All of this can be easily countered if you’d just get a Lyca Mobile eSIM for your iPad. 

With an eSIM, you get to enjoy the convenience of staying connected on the move, without having to rely on sketchy public Wi-Fi. Get a Lyca Mobile eSIM for your iPad and free yourself from the shackles of public Wi-Fi.

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