Verizon joins AT&T as a seller of the iPad, but the offerings differ among the stores.
AT&T will be selling 3G iPads, while Verizon will be selling bundles that include a Wi-Fi iPad and Verizon MiFi mobile hotspot.
MiFi takes signal from Verizon’s cellular network and converts it to Wi-Fi. Apple devices don’t yet work on the technology that Verizon’s network uses, called CDMA or code division multiple access. It is a technique used for wireless technology in particular, that involves multiplexing.
With MiFi, users need to carry around an extra device to get 3G connection. The device is small, weighs two ounces and usually costs $270, but with a two-year contract the device is thrown in gratis.
The Verizon MiFi bundles cost $629 to $829 depending on the iPad’s memory. Wi-Fi-only iPads cost $499 to $699.
Verizon and AT&T both are offering plans without long-term contracts, but neither offers unlimited monthly data.
Verizon is charging $20 a month for 1 gigabyte of data, $35 a month for 3 GB, $50 for 5 GB and $80 for 10 GB.
AT&T charges $15 for 250 MB per month and $25 for 2GB.
Verizon and AT&T both offer access to Wi-Fi hotspots at no extra cost.