Yes, your iPad will work perfectly fine without a phone number, especially if it's a Wi-Fi model, as you only need Wi-Fi or a hotspot; cellular models get a data number for internet, not calls, but you can still text/call using your Apple ID (iMessage, FaceTime) over Wi-Fi or data, or use third-party apps.
As you use your new device, you might be asked to enter your phone number, or a payment method and billing information. Your phone number can help to verify your identity and recover your account if needed. If you enter a payment method, you won't be charged until you make a purchase.
Your iPad cannot connect directly to cell towers for voice calls, unlike a phone. It uses internet calling instead. This is called VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). You do not need a phone plan or SIM card for most calling apps.
Apple iPad WiFi models operate fully without a SIM card, relying solely on WiFi for internet access. However, features like cellular data and GPS-based location services are unavailable without a SIM. To troubleshoot connectivity, ensure your WiFi network is stable and the iPad's software is updated.
You can turn on and set up your new iPad with an internet connection. You can also set up iPad by connecting it to your computer. If you have another iPhone, an iPad, or an Android device, you can transfer your data to your new iPad.
If you're someplace where there's no Wi‑Fi, iPad Wi‑Fi + Cellular models let you connect directly to fast cellular data networks in over 190 countries whenever you need it. Connect effortlessly, everywhere.
Set up Assistive Access on iPad
No, you cannot add cellular to an iPad with only WiFi after purchase. iPads with cellular capabilities have a dedicated chip and antenna that are not present in WiFi-only models. This means that you cannot simply add a cellular SIM card to a WiFi-only iPad and expect it to work.
WiFi+Cellular models of iPad also have a slot for a SIM card. Cellular does not need to activated, or require a SIM card to be installed, unless a Cellular connection is needed. The SIM provides additional flexibility in being able to use Cellular networks where WiFi networks are not available.
Make or receive phone calls on your iPad
and type a number, or search for a contact. If you make a call from another device by relaying it through your iPad with Dual SIM, the call is made using your default voice line.
Apple has no subscription for the cellular capability of your iPad, so you would pay for cellular service on your iPad the same way you would for an ordinary phone.
Given that it looks and acts like a larger smartphone (minus the obvious calling feature) and that there are apps, it's easy to classify it as a mobile device. And that's probably true – the iPad is more mobile than, say, your laptop.
When you travel with iPad, choose settings that comply with airline requirements. Some airlines let you keep your iPad turned on if you switch to Airplane Mode. When you turn on Airplane Mode initially, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, and cellular networks turn off.
Your iPad phone number is just an identifier for Tmobile network and not a “real” phone number which is why you don't have a phone app on an iPad. For voice calls, you can enable calls from your iPad if you link it to your iPhone and when you use FaceTime voice calls, it will show your iPhone number.
Sign up for Google Voice & get your number
Activate your iPhone or iPad
You need to connect to a Wi-Fi network or a cellular network to activate and continue setting up your device. Tap the Wi-Fi network that you want to use or, if available, tap Continue Without Wi-Fi to use your device's cellular network.
On models that support physical SIM, you can get a nano-SIM card from a carrier. Insert a paper clip or SIM eject tool (not included) into the small hole of the SIM tray, then push in toward iPad to eject the tray. Note: The shape and orientation of the SIM tray depend on the iPad model and your country or region.
A WiFi iPad connects to the internet only via wireless networks, while the Cellular model allows internet use through mobile networks – similar to a smartphone. This means that with a Cellular iPad, you can surf the internet in places without WiFi access, but this convenience comes at an additional cost.
Some iPad models do not have a SIM tray or physical SIM card. Learn how to set up an eSIM instead. Find your model below to locate the SIM tray. To pop open the SIM tray, insert a paper clip or a SIM-eject tool into the hole beside the tray.
Yes. If you're planning on using your tablet mostly at home using your home internet Wi-Fi, or in other locations with ample, secure Wi-Fi access, you might not need a data plan for your tablet.
There are two different models of iPads. WIFI only, which do not accept sim cards, and WIFI and Data, and these do accept sim cards.
Use an eSIM
There are multiple ways to activate cellular data on iPad using eSIM. To set up a cellular data plan using an eSIM on your iPad, use eSIM Carrier Activation, transfer your plan from another iPad, join an existing iPhone cellular plan, find a new plan, use a QR code, or use your carrier's iPad app.
Why the Apple iPad Is Our Top Pick for the Easiest iPad for Seniors. The Apple iPad's 10.2-inch screen strikes the right balance between portability and accessibility. It's small enough to hold comfortably but large enough to navigate easily. Vision, hearing, mobility and cognitive features are built into the device.
Whether you're just getting started or want to make sure you have the basics set up, you're in the right place.
Browse the web privately in Safari on iPad