Australia’s consumer watchdog, the ACCC, in a report yesterday has deemed Apple’s claims that its “new iPad” is able to connect to the new super fast 4G wireless broadband as misleading.
The “new iPad” was released all over the world earlier this month, promising new features and upgrades, including a 2048 x 1536px retina display, new A5X CPU and advanced optics 5mp camera. It was noted pretty quickly on its release that its 4G technology would not be compatible with the Telstra network, despite Apple making claims that the device was at least technically capable of providing the next generation broadband (just not in Australia).
According to NineMSN Finance, The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has said it would apply to the Federal Court against Apple.
“The ACCC alleges that Apple’s recent promotion of the new ‘iPad with WiFi + 4G’ is misleading because 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.”
Currently they’re looking into an urgent temporary relief so customers could be made aware of the true capabilities of the device, as well as seeking refunds to affected consumers.
“Consumers who have purchased or are considering purchasing an “iPad with WiFi + 4G” should ensure that they have a proper understanding of the mobile data networks which this iPad can directly access by a SIM card.”
The ACCC has lodged its application in the Federal Court today.
