Apple is a step closer to selling its iPad with built-in 3G wireless data support in China now that the multimedia tablet has gained government approval. So far, the iPad with Wi-Fi support is the only model officially available in the country.
The iPad is Apple’s multimedia tablet device with a 9.7-inch multi-touch display. It runs iOS like the iPhone and iPod touch, and supports third-party apps available through Apple’s iTunes-based App Store. The iPad sports built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, and some models include 3G wireless data support, too.
3G iPad headed to China
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology finally approved the iPad 3G for use in the country near the end of December. Apple first started selling the Wi-Fi version of the iPad in April 2010 and followed a few weeks later with the 3G version.
The company is expected to launch the second generation iPad in early spring, but hasn’t confirmed those rumors.
Apple spokesperson Carolyn Wu confirmed the company plans to sell its iPad with 3G support in China, but didn’t say when it expects the tablet to hit local store shelves.
[Thanks to the Wall Street Journal for the heads up.]