Cosmetic Differences in iPad 3G vs iPad Wi-Fi
iPad 3G
As pointed out by 9to5Mac, the 3G version of the iPad is pictured in Apple's online gallery and carries a cosmetic difference to the Wi-Fi version. The 3G version has a black plastic strip that extends to the top of the device and is visible from the front. This plastic is necessary to allow the 3G cellular signal to transmit outside the aluminum enclosure.
Such a cosmetic requirement was described by iLounge prior to the device's release, though they also believed the iPad would have dual dock connectors -- which it does not.
The Wi-Fi version of the iPad will be shipping in late March, while the 3G-enabled version will arrive in April.
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Black plastic = higher iPad status
/They should have gone retro and called it the iBook.
I mean, they've got the frickin' iBookStore, so why not go with iBook?
So is adding a plastic strip, machining a different aluminum back panel, and adding a 3G radio chip worth $100++?
Apple's margin on the $500 iPad is probably a lot smaller than their usual margins. To make up for this, they are charging $100 and $200 for memory that costs a fraction of that (they do it on the iPhone and iPods too). They also are going to charge $130 for 3G+GPS. It's not a good deal, but I don't have a problem with it. It makes the $500 iPad a lot more attractive. Plus, I won't feel so bad when I ditch it for the 2nd gen.
/They should have gone retro and called it the iBook.
I mean, they've got the frickin' iBookStore, so why not go with iBook?
Agreed, but I think they are worried about it being perceived as being simply a competitor to ebook readers.
So is adding a plastic strip, machining a different aluminum back panel, and adding a 3G radio chip worth $100++?
Don't forget that the 3g model has GPS. For some reason EVERYONE forgets this. I don't need 3g, but would like GPS. Can you imagine TomTom on this screen in your car? Lol.
Specs page listing GPS option for Wi-Fi + 3G model:
http://www.apple.com/ipad/specs/
Scroll down, under "Location" on the left. Assisted GPS is full GPS which is assisted by cell towers / wifi hotspots to get a faster lock.
Agreed, but I think they are worried about it being perceived as being simply a competitor to ebook readers.
I think they could have spun it as the iBook being the next generation of the old iBook line. The next step in modern computing or something like that........
It would have fit a lot better.
I hope there are options for a black back like in some models of the iPhone. My guess is they will follow the iPhone scheme where the lower end memory models will have a black back. If so, that black stripe for the 3G antenna will not be so bad looking.
I think that they would have discussed color differences at the keynote.
Well, I guess that's how we'll be able to tell who spent the extra $$$$ on the 3G.....
Black plastic = higher iPad status
/They should have gone retro and called it the iBook.
I mean, they've got the frickin' iBookStore, so why not go with iBook?
Cause its not JUST for reading books on?! They are marketing it to a much larger customer base than literature fans...
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