An iPad, whether a Cellular model or not, is not capable of directly accessing Cellular Voice or Messaging features. An iPad with Cellular connectivity alone can only access IP-data services. An iPad is not, and can never be, a standalone substitute for an iPhone.
However, If paired with an iPhone, the capabilities of iPad significantly broaden to include access to Cellular Voice and Messaging services of the associated iPhone - relayed to the iPad over WiFi using Apple’s continuity features. For the most part, an iPad using Continuity is able to access Cellular calling features, of the iPhone, when both the iPad an iPhone are in close physical proximityandare connected to the same WiFi network - but this is not the end of the story.
Now,ifyourbothyour Cellular Carrierandyour calling plan support WiFi Calling, your iPadcanmake and receive calls independently of the iPhone - even when the iPhone is switched off, elsewhere, or using a different WiFi network. Not all carriers support full WiFi calling - and many Carrier representatives don’t technically understand or acknowledge its existence.
More information about Continuity and the relevant Cellular services can be found here:
Continuity
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT204681
SMS/MMS Messaging
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208386
WiFi Calling
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT203032
When correctly configured, the iPadFaceTimeApp provides access to Cellular Voice Calling features - whilstMessagessupports SMS/MMS messaging services.
So, in conclusion, if your own Cellular Carrier and tariff support WiFi Calling, it is theoretically possible to configure WiFi Calling service for your iPad - before switching off and removing the SIM card from an iPhone (e.g., before sending for repair). After WiFi Calling is enabled and configured, your iPad can continue to make and receive cellular calls whilst connected to a WiFi network (caveat: any associated firewall must not block WiFi Calling or VoIP services) - even in absence of the iPhone.
I hope this information and clarification is helpful in resolving your immediate needs.
FAQs
That depends entirely on you. If you want the iPad to have internet access when away from Wi-Fi you need to setup cellular service on the device. If using one of the supported carriers, it can be done directly the iPad, no need to go the carrier store, though you will need to pay for the service.
Do I need a phone line for an iPad air? ›
Important: Wi-Fi + Cellular models do not support cellular phone service—they support cellular data transmission only. To make phone calls on any iPad model, you need to use Wi-Fi Calling and an iPhone.
Is it worth getting an iPad with cellular? ›
Cellular iPads Just Give You More Options
Whether it's for work or for play, a cellular iPad can be a game changer. Choosing a cellular iPad over a Wi-Fi iPad means you'll always have the speed, reliability, and security of a mobile data connection, giving you the power to use your iPad in many more ways.
Why have a phone line for an iPad? ›
Cellular data on iPad gives you the flexibility to stay connected whenever you're away from Wi-Fi. Cellular data on iPad gives you the flexibility to stay connected whenever you're away from Wi‑Fi.
Can I put my iPad on my phone plan? ›
On models that support eSIM, you can activate the cellular service from your iPad. You may also be able to travel abroad with iPad and sign up for cellular service with a local carrier in the country or region you're visiting. This option isn't available in all countries or regions, and not all carriers are supported.
What is the difference between Wi-Fi and cellular on iPad? ›
Wifi gets its internet connection by attaching to any wifi network that you have access to. The wifi cellular can either connect to any wifi you have access to, or you can purchase a plan through your cellular phone provider to add data to the ipad allowing you to use it anywhere that cellular data is available.
What is the advantage of an iPad with WiFi and cellular? ›
An iPad with Cellular LTE / 5G offers the advantage that it has an integrated cellular connection. This means that you can take the device with you wherever you go and access the Internet on the go without having to rely on a WLAN network.
What is the difference between iPad and iPad Air? ›
Despite the iPad Air technically being a more premium device than the standard iPad, the standard iPad features a slight upgrade to its Bluetooth connectivity that the iPad Air doesn't: The iPad Air uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the standard iPad uses the newer Bluetooth 5.2.
How much is iPad cellular monthly? ›
Compare the cheapest iPad cellular plans
| Carrier | Network | Price |
|---|
| US Mobile 12GB data plan | Verizon & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | $0/mo $25/mo |
| Mint Mobile 20GB data plan | T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | $15/mo $25/mo |
| Boost Mobile unlimited data plan | AT&T & T-Mobile 5G/4G Coverage | $12.50/mo $25/mo |
2 more rowsMay 4, 2023
If you have another iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 11, iPadOS 13, or later, you can use Quick Start to automatically set up your new device. Bring the two devices close together, then follow the onscreen instructions to securely copy many of your settings, preferences, and iCloud Keychain.
Initial setup
If you already own an iPhone or older iPad, you can save time by using the Quick Start feature, by bringing your existing device over to the iPad. This can help save you time by setting up your existing Apple ID and to transfer data between devices, including apps, app data, and settings.
How long will the new iPad air last? ›
How Many Years Should an iPad Last? Apple usually supports a new iPad with iPadOS updates for at least five years and often several years longer. Most iPad models hold up well in performance, features, and storage over this timeframe which means that five years is a standard lifespan for any iPad.
How do I answer the phone on my iPad? ›
Make or receive a phone call on your iPad, iPod touch, or Mac
- Make a call: Tap or click a phone number in Contacts, Calendar, FaceTime, Messages, Search, or Safari. Or open FaceTime, enter a contact or phone number, then tap . ...
- Receive a call: Swipe, tap, or click the notification to answer or ignore the call.
You can send a text message to one or more people to start a new conversation. Open the Messages app . at the top of the screen. Enter the phone number, contact name, or Apple ID of each recipient.
Can you add cellular to an iPad without cellular? ›
A WiFi Only iPad is always a WiFi Only iPad. Cellular capability cannot be added later.
What is the difference between an iPad and an iPad air? ›
Despite the iPad Air technically being a more premium device than the standard iPad, the standard iPad features a slight upgrade to its Bluetooth connectivity that the iPad Air doesn't: The iPad Air uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the standard iPad uses the newer Bluetooth 5.2.
