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Set up an iPad data plan

Use your iPad on the go by setting up a data plan or adding an international data option.

ArticleDETAILED STEPS

Before you get started

About the SIM card you'll need
Your iPad must have an embedded Apple SIM, an Apple SIM card in the SIM-card tray, or an AT&T SIM card.

iPads that use an Apple SIM card:
  • iPad Air 2
  • iPad Mini 3
  • iPad Mini 4
  • iPad Pro 12.9
  • iPad Pro 9.7 (has embedded Apple SIM)

If you didn’t buy the iPad from us or you need a new SIM, order an AT&T SIM card online.

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Set up iPad data plan

Follow these steps from your iPad to set up a monthly postpaid or prepaid data plan for your iPad. Note: Steps may vary based on iPad model.

Set up a monthly postpaid data plan

  1. From the Home screen, tap Settings, then Cellular Data, and then Set Up Cellular Data.
  2. Choose one of the following options:
    • Add to your current postpaid data plan. 
    • Activate a new standalone data plan.
  3. Follow the prompts to sign in to myAT&T or create a new account.
  4. Follow the prompts to select a plan or add your iPad to an existing plan, and complete your data plan activation.

Add a Prepaid DataConnect Pass plan

Heads up:

  • Each DataConnect Pass plan includes a specific amount of data that lasts a certain length of time.
  • Once all you use all your data or the expiration date passes, you’ll have to buy a new DataConnect Pass plan.
  • Even when your device isn't transmitting or receiving data or all the data hasn’t been used, the expiration date remains in effect.
  • If you buy another DataConnect Pass, you can’t use it until your previous pass data is used or until the previous pass expires.

Purchase a DataConnect Pass plan:
  1. From the Home screen, tap Settings, then Cellular Data, and then Set Up Cellular Data.
  2. Select Purchase prepaid data plans (DataConnect Pass).
  3. Follow the prompts to create a new account (this is separate from a myAT&T account), select a plan, and complete your data plan activation.

Add an international data option
It’s easy to add a compatible international option. International DataPass plans can be future-dated to start when you're ready to travel.
  1. Go to Settings, then Cellular Data, and then Account. If you have an Apple SIM, select Set Up Cellular Data.
  2. Select Worldwide Data Plan and follow the prompts to add an international package. 
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Troubleshoot iPad cellular data connection

Can’t connect to cellular data
Did you get confirmation that your data plan was successfully activated, but you can’t connect to cellular data?
  • Go to Settings and then Cellular Data.
  • Make sure that cellular data is On. Traveling internationally? Check that data roaming is On.  

International and domestic off-net (roaming) data usage may be at 2G speeds.
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