Apple’s new iPad runs afoul of Australian regulator

The Australian regulator is planning to take Apple to court for misleading consumers saying that its new iPad connects to the country's 4G networks.

The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) alleges that the Cupertino, California-based technology giant has promoted its new iPad with misleading claims that it is WiFi + 4G compatible to Australian network.

The ACCC said in a statement today, ''It represents to Australian consumers that the product 'iPad with WiFi + 4G' can, with a SIM card, connect to a 4G mobile data network in Australia, when this is not the case.''

The ACCC said that it is ''seeking urgent interlocutory relief to ensure consumers are made aware of the correct capabilities of this device,'' and will seek court orders that include ''injunctions, pecuniary penalties, corrective advertising and refunds to consumers affected.''

The new iPad, advertised as 4G compatible, uses the 700 megahertz and 2,100 megahertz frequencies for 4G services, while Australian telecom operator Telstra Corporation uses the 1,800 megahertz frequency, thus preventing the iPad from connecting to the 4G mobile network.

Telstra operates the country's only working 4G network, while rival Optus, owned by SingTel, has yet to roll out 4G services.
 
Apple's third-generation iPad went on sale earlier this month, and Australia was the first country where the new device was available. According to Credit Suisse estimates, Apple has sold more than 500,000 iPads in Australia.