How to Transfer Cellular Plan to New iPad [Ultimate Guide]

Things That You Should Know: What SIM Card Your Device Has

Before you transfer cellular plan to new iPad, it’s important to determine which SIM card your iPad is equipped with. Compatibility between SIM cards and Apple iPad models varies, which can make this process complicated.

iPad models with an embedded Apple SIM or an eSIM (also a nano-SIM card tray):

• 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd-generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular model
• 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2nd-generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular model
• 11-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular model
• 10.5-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular model
• 9.7-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular model

iPad models either equipped with a detachable Apple SIM placed within a nano-SIM tray or compatible with the Apple SIM:

• iPad (5th-generation)
• iPad Pro (all Wi-Fi + Cellular models)
• iPad Air 2 and later
• iPad mini 3 and later

Tip: iPads not included in the aforementioned list that possess a nano-SIM tray will not support an Apple SIM. If you attempt to use such a SIM, you’ll receive an “Invalid SIM” notification.

Some older iPads employ a larger Micro-SIM card, which is not compatible with the smaller nano-SIM.

• iPad (4th-generation)
• iPad (3rd-generation)
• iPad 2
• iPad

How to Transfer Cellular Plan to New iPad with Apple SIM or eSIM

If both of your iPad devices come equipped with embedded Apple SIM cards or eSIM, the way to transfer cellular to new iPad is quite simple and easy. Just follow these straightforward steps:

Step 1: Open the Settings on your new cellular iPad > Tap Cellular Data > Select the carrier you previously used with your old iPad.

Step 2: In the window that appears, tap Transfer Service > Follow the directions provided by your carrier to complete the data plan transfer.

How to Transfer Data Plans to New iPad with Same SIM Cards

If you have the same SIM cards on your old and new iPads, how to transfer cellular plan to new iPad? Here is a detailed guide:

Step 1: Power off both your old and new iPad > Remove the SIM tray from your old iPad by using the SIM card removal tool that came with your iPad.

Step 2: Insert the SIM card from your old iPad into the SIM tray of your new iPad > Carefully reinsert the SIM card tray into your new iPad, making sure it’s fully closed.

If the SIM cards in your two iPads are different sizes, you will need to contact your carrier to obtain a new nano-SIM card for your new iPad.

Bonus Tip: How to Transfer All Data to New iPad

In addition to transferring cellular plan to from your old iPad to your new iPad, one of the most important things is to move data (such as contacts, messages, call history, photos, videos, apps, and more) to your new iPad. In this case, it’s highly advised to use FoneTool (iOS 17 Compatible) - a safe and reliable iOS data transfer tool.

With the help of this data transfer tool, you cannot only transfer all data from your old iPad to your new iPad with one click but also backup iPad when iCloud is full. Why not choose FoneTool? Some advantage are listed below:

One-Click Data Transfer: FoneTool simplifies the process, allowing you to transfer data seamlessly from your old iPad to your new one with a single click.
Secure Transfer: FoneTool offers encryption options to protect sensitive data during the transfer, including health and activity information.
Comprehensive Compatibility: FoneTool works with a wide range of iPad models and iOS versions, ensuring compatibility for most users.
User-Friendly Interface: The software provides an intuitive interface that makes the transfer process straightforward, even for non-tech-savvy users.

The following is how to transfer all data from your old iPad to your new iPad with FoneTool:

Step 1: Begin by downloading and installing FoneTool on your PC > Connect the two iPads to your PC using a USB cable > Tap Trust on your iPads’ screen.

Step 2: Launch FoneTool and navigate to the Phone Transfer option on the home page > Select the iPhone to iPhone mode and click the Start Transfer button.

Step 3: Ensure that your old iPad and new iPad are correctly positioned > Enable Backup Encryption to safeguard sensitive data like Health and Activity information.

Step 4: Finally, initiate the transfer by clicking Start Transfer. This will kickstart the process of moving your data to the new iPad.

In addition, you can make use of the iPhone to PC mode to selectively move specific data from your Pad to your PC (such as transfer iBooks to PC, etc.).

The Bottom Line

When you decide to upgrade your iPad, trying to transfer cellular plan to new iPad becomes a valuable task. Moreover, if you plan to transfer all data to your new iPad, FoneTool is a good choice for you. With the help of FoneTool, you cannot only transfer data between iOS devices or between iPads/iPhones and PCs but also backup iPhone to iPad or PC (and vice versa). In addition, FoneTool is an excellent iOS manager that can help you delete duplicate photos on your iPad/iPhone or PC, erase your device to avoid data recovery.