Apple’s recent unveiling of the 2024 iPad Air and iPad Pro, sleek and powerful as they are, has hit a snag for some Google Fi users. The issue? These new iPads ditch the traditional SIM card slot in favor of eSIM technology, a move that’s causing headaches for those who rely on Google Fi data-only plans.
Frustrated and eager users are on Reddit and Google forums sharing their experiences and seeking solutions. According to affected Google Fi users, attempts to activate data-only eSIMs on any of the 2024 iPad Air and iPad Pro have resulted in their primary devices being deprovisioned, leaving them with no service on either device. This issue isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a major disruption for those who rely on Google Fi for their cellular connectivity.
The root of the problem lies in Google Fi’s reliance on physical SIM cards for data-only plans. While eSIM technology offers seamless activation and flexibility, Google Fi hasn’t adapted its data-only plans to accommodate this growing trend. This oversight is particularly glaring given the popularity of iPads, with Apple commanding a 56% market share in the US, as per Statista data released in October 2023.
Users are left wondering when, or if, Google Fi will address this issue. Perhaps the increasing adoption of eSIM technology, not just by Apple but also by other manufacturers like Samsung, could push Google Fi to finally offer data-only eSIMs. The potential cost savings associated with eliminating physical SIM card shipments could also incentivize this change.
In fact, some users have expressed their hopes that Google Fi will adapt to the changing landscape. “What are the chances that Google will start supporting data-only eSIMs since the new iPad Pro is eSIM only?” one user questioned. But if you just back from a cave, it’s worth noting that this situation is not without precedent.
The launch of the iPhone 15 series, which also ditched physical SIM slots in the US, faced similar issues with Google Fi when transferring their account from their old iPhone to the new model. However, Google Fi support eventually provided a solution, albeit one that required a secondary device and a QR code scan. Let’s hope Google Fi support is cooking up something that allows owners of the 2024 iPad Air and iPad Pro to set them up as data-only devices.
This situation highlights the challenges that arise when technological advancements outpace service providers’ ability to adapt. While eSIM technology has its benefits, including convenience and environmental friendliness, its implementation isn’t without its growing pains.
It remains to be seen whether Google Fi rise to the occasion and embrace eSIM for data-only plans. Given the industry’s direction, it’s unlikely that Google will want to be left behind. Their reaction will determine not only the fate of iPad users but also how fast Google Fi is ready and willing to adapt to the evolving landscape of cellular connectivity.
Himanshu Arora
256 Posts
I have been writing tech-focused articles since 2010. In my around 15 years of experience so far, I have written for many leading publications, including Computerworld, GSMArena, TechSpot, HowtoForge, LinuxJournal, and MakeTechEasier to name a few. I also co-founded PiunikaWeb, which went on to become a huge success within 5 years of its inception. Here at TechIssuesToday, I aim to offer you helpful information in a way that you won't find anywhere else easily.
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