Activating an Apple iPad With AT&T

by Melissa King
Purchase a data plan to download media files to your iPad.

Purchase a data plan to download media files to your iPad.

Mathew Sumner/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Your Apple iPad comes with several features that require Internet access, such as a Web browser and email. To use these features, you need to activate a data plan from AT&T. Apple enables you to sign up for a data plan directly from your iPad. Choose from one of AT&T's data plans, depending on how often you use the Internet on your iPad.

Step 1

Tap "Settings" from your iPad's Home screen, then touch "Cellular Data" and "View Account."

Step 2

Enter your user and login information.

Step 3

Select one of the available data plans in the Recurring Domestic Plan Options section. Consider how much you plan to use your iPad, as charges will be incurred if you go over your limit.

Step 4

Enter your payment information, then tap "Next," and agree to the terms of service.

Step 5

Tap "Submit" on the Payment Summary page to confirm your order. Wait for AT&T to activate service on your iPad, then tap "OK."

Tip

  • You can't use a rural route or P.O. box for your service address. You must used a street address.
  • If you're not sure which data plan to buy, enter your average daily or monthly data usage in the AT&T Data Calculator (link in Resources).
  • If you want to use your iPad internationally, tap "Add International Data" on the Payment Summary screen. You must set up service in the United States before you can use it in other countries.

About the Author

Melissa King began writing in 2001. She spent three years writing for her local newspaper, "The Colt," writing editorials, news stories, product reviews and entertainment pieces. She is also the owner and operator of Howbert Freelance Writing. King holds an Associate of Arts in communications from Tarrant County College.

Photo Credits

  • Mathew Sumner/Getty Images News/Getty Images