QUICK LOOK

Stay connected

If there is one feature Mac users have been hoping for over the past few years, it’s cellular connectivity. Despite the fact that Apple has made MacBooks more portable than ever, you still need an iPhone for connections outside of Wi–Fi. The iPads, however, all have this option if you need it. It is a very strange omission.

A A NEW SIM

You will need to purchase a separate data plan for your iPad to be able to use it outside of the house and away from Wi–Fi. The relevant options will be available at the top of the main Settings screen.

B WI–FI EVERYWHERE

If you are careful with your security, you can be fairly sure of decent Wi–Fi coverage in most public places. Cellular can perform better for you, however, if you are undertaking data– hungry tasks on the road.

C A CHEAPER OPTION

If you carry your iPhone with you anyway, using the hotspot feature will be cheaper and almost as convenient. This works in exactly the same way for a MacBook, which evens the feature setup a bit.

D MIND THE COSTS

An iPad cellular connection is very handy, but you really need to think hard about the costs. Most providers offer a monthly plan that includes the cost of the hardware, but standalone SIMs can prove quite costly over time.