Addressing confusion over the new iPad's wireless capabilities, Apple removed the term "4G" from the iPad's name on Monday.
For potential iPad buyers in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, and portions of Asia, the iPad is now listed as "Wi-Fi + Cellular" instead of "Wi-Fi + 4G." However, in the tablet's description, Apple's language still references 4G: "Connects to the Internet over Wi-Fi and fast cellular data networks — up to 4G LTE."
Apple's decision comes after repeated complaints and litigation across the globe from users unable to take advantage of the device's LTE speeds.
AT launch, Apple specified that the iPad's 4G LTE capabilities were compatible with a handful of carriers in the U.S. and Canada, including AT&T and Verizon. Outside of North America, most iPad owners don't have access to LTE networks, and instead connect over HSPA and HSPA+ networks. HSPA+ is technically considered 4G by the International Telecommunications Union; HSPA is considered 3G.
For iPad buyers outside the U.S., references to "4G connectivity" have also been removed from the device's description to avoid confusion. Apple already issued refunds to Australian iPad buyers who felt deceived by the iPad's branding.
via Macworld
