Verizon Wireless touts the benefits of a MiFi-connected Apple iPad
A leaked internal memo reveals that the nation’s largest carrier is trying to jump on the Apple bandwagon by encouraging its employees to push its MiFi device as an accessory to the upcoming iPad. The idea itself is worthy of consideration — save $130 by purchasing the Wi-Fi version of the Apple iPad and pair it with a MiFi to get 3G wireless connectivity on the go. What Verizon fails to mention is that the MiFi requires a two year contract and will cost $60 per month for the unlimited data plan, meanwhile the 3G iPad can rock on an AT&T unlimited data plan for a mere $30 per month. After five months of service, the $130 you saved up front is gone and that MiFi-connected iPad will cost you an extra $590 over the course of a two year contract. In this ongoing battle of network superiority, Verizon also can’t resist jabbing AT&T by asking “Why pay more for the 3G version and get 3G service on an overloaded network with limited coverage?” This bullet point, though, must have been written before the PC World article from last month was released. Much to the embarrassment of Verizon, the results from the latest carrier showdown reveal that AT&T’s network is passing with flying colors, while Big Red is showing a bit of strain under the load of Android. When April rolls around and you can pick out your iPad version what will you choose? The WiFi version with a MiFi or the 3G version that runs on AT&T?
[Via Business Insider]
Negative.
The 3G iPad will run you well into the $700 range when you factor in taxes PLUS the monthly. Compare that to the MiFi, where you just pay about $560 plus the monthly, AND the idea that you can enable other devices (creating a network in the process) AND the idea that you’re not then stuck with AT&T’s mess, and it’s a better deal overall.
Long time MiFi customer, recently went to Palm’s mobile hotspot (same concept, different device), and if I were stupid enough to buy an iPad, it’d be the first thing I do.
I was ’stupid’ enough to have my company buy me an iPad, and I use a Verizon wireless USB stick with a Cradlepoint wireless router, with its own Li-Ion battery. (PHS-375). Works great, and I can run 16 devices, and can go over 5GB without being charged.