Using Verizon iPad for use on AT&T???

[amg]

I'm really puzzled on something here.

According to Apple - The new iPad - View all the technical specifications. there are limited differences between the Verizon and AT&T versions... I've highlighted what is unique to each model...

Wi-Fi + 4G for AT&T model: LTE (700, 2100 MHz)3; UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)

Wi-Fi + 4G for Verizon model: LTE (700 MHz)3; CDMA EV-DO Rev. A (800, 1900 MHz); UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)

So, unless I'm missing something, the AT&T version has a second frequency for LTE (2100), which I'm not even sure is its primary LTE frequency. The Verizon version supports all other AT&T frequencies (including its 3G and quasi-4G offerings) and adds on Verizon's own 3G protocols.

If I'm reading this correctly, I'm wondering why someone couldn't just use an AT&T SIM in a "Verizon" iPad (they're not locked - are they???) - recognizing that 4G LTE might be more limited, but having access to everything else AT&T... and still having the flexibility to switch carriers to Verizon.

It obviously can't be that simple, otherwise Apple would sell just the one version... But what am I missing????

 

[kch50428]

If I'm reading this correctly, I'm wondering why someone couldn't just use an AT&T SIM in a "Verizon" iPad (they're not locked - are they???)

If iPads are treated anything like iPhones, the radio capabilities of an iDevice that is sold/configured for use on Verizon's network will be hard-coded to lock the radios of the devices to only allow operation on Verizon only and any providers outside the US. An AT&T-US sim will not make a Verizon iPad work on AT&T.

 

[amg]

Point taken re the hardcoding to a particular carrier on cell phones. However, since the iPads are entirely unsubsidized, what would be the point of locking it down?