There are two SIM options for connecting your WiFi + Cellular iPad model to a data plan: a physical SIM card or eSIM technology.* (Note: Wi-Fi iPad models cannot connect to cellular networks.)

Physical SIM card: All Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad models have a physical nano-SIM tray that will hold a carrier nano-SIM card (also called 4FF SIM card). Your iPad may have a carrier SIM card already installed if you purchased it from a carrier. If not, you can contact your carrier to obtain an appropriate card for your iPad. Some iPad models also support an Apple SIM card. For more information, go to https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203089.

eSIM technology: Newer Wifi + Cellular iPad models include built-in eSIM technology that essentially acts as a digital SIM card. There are a few ways to activate an eSIM on your iPad, including downloading it right on the iPad itself, scanning a QR code, or using an app from a carrier. With eSIM, you can choose cellular data plans from select carriers in the U.S. and in more than 180 countries and regions around the world. For more information on setting up eSIM, go to https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203089.

More information on iPad support for LTE networks by carrier and country or region

All iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular models include a nano-SIM tray that supports a carrier SIM card.

Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad models with embedded eSIM technology include: 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd and 4th generation), 11-inch iPad Pro (1st and 2nd generation), iPad Air (3rd and 4th generation), iPad (7th and 8th generation), and iPad mini (5th generation).

Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad models with a physical Apple SIM card include: 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st generation), iPad Air (2nd generation), iPad (5th and 6th generation), and iPad mini (3rd and 4th generation). Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad models with an embedded Apple SIM include: 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation), 10.5-inch iPad Pro, and 9.7-inch iPad Pro.

*Not all carriers support Apple SIM and eSIM. See your carrier for more details. Not available in China mainland. The eSIM technology works with iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation), iPad Air (3rd and 4th generation), iPad (7th and 8th generation), and iPad mini (5th generation). Apple SIM works with iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad (5th and 6th generation), iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, and iPad mini 4.