New iPad 4G LTE incompatible with networks outside North America

Apple advertises the iPad Wi-Fi + 4G model as the LTE-capable one, but the radio bands supported by the device are not the same as those used outside of North America.

4G LTE supported on AT&T and Verizon networks in the US; Bell, Rogers and Telus networks in Canada. 4G data plan is sold separately.

The iPad with Wi-Fi + 4G model you purchase is configured to work with a particular mobile network technology. Check with your carrier for compatibility and 4G data plan availability.

According to Apple U.K.'s info page, the new iPad will support the 700MHz and 2100MHz LTE bands found in the stateside AT&T version, which don't match the 800MHz, 1800MHz and 2600MHz LTE bands being rolled out across Europe.

That means that those European users who hope to use LTE will likely be disappointed. One more interesting fact is that Japan's iPad Wi-Fi + 4G model doesn't even have LTE support.

While 4G LTE bands differ from country to country, they will likely follow the path of 3G and unify at some point. Until that time, however, Apple will be forced to make separate models to support the different LTE frequencies.