Verizon may have iPad sooner than thought

A new rumor asserts that Verizon is actively testing iPads on its 3G network. The "highly placed" source claims the Apple tablets are using the EVDO portion of Verizon's CDMA network. They also told BGR that LTE for Verizon's future 4G network may come about, but they didn't clarify whether this was part of the same model or a separate, future iPad.

Rumors have persisted since late last year that Apple had been striking a deal for a Verizon tablet, but the prospect was seemingly quashed when Apple unveiled the iPad as an AT&T-only device in late January. One analyst and others believe AT&T may have used the iPad as a bargaining chip to prevent an earlier Verizon launch. While mostly speculation, it's suggested that AT&T only agreed to the $30 unlimited (now $25 for 2GB) plan in return for Apple delaying any Verizon launches until later.

Any release timing wasn't part of the as yet unconfirmed rumor, but Apple normally only tests cellular hardware in the field a few months before it's ready to ship. The company would also have a shorter test cycle as the core iPad is already done and mostly needs a new 3G chipset.

By Electronista Staff