Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2012/11/23/ipad_mini_delayed_in_uk_retina_ipad_released/

Apple LTE iPad Mini release slips back in Blighty

4G iPad 4 out at last

By Caleb Cox

Posted in Personal Tech, 23rd November 2012 14:08 GMT

Apple's fourth-generation iPad with retina display is now available in the UK, but those who ordered the 4G iPad Mini may end up waiting longer for their shiny new slate than they expected.

The Cuperino firm had previously pledged to deliver the iPad Mini LTE to British buyers by the end of the month, but after the US launch last weekend it has pushed its UK estimations back, emailing those who pre-ordered the device to inform them of the delay.

Dispatch is now expected between 30 November and 7 December, which matches up with revised shipping dates on the UK Apple Store, recently nudged from "late November" to "2 weeks".

On a positive note, at least the cellular connected-version of Apple's iPad 4 is now available, with some carriers offering next-day delivery.

Anyone interested in purchasing one of the firm's fresh 9.7in fondleslabs can go through the UK Apple store where you'll currently fork out £468, £538 or £608 for 16GB, 32GB or 64GB versions, respectively.

Alternatively, sign up on a monthly payment plan through a network provider.

Apple iPad with Retina Display

As usual, Three offers fairly tasty iPad 4 deals - a 16GB version starts at £29 a month on a two-year contract. While there is an up-front charge of £99, you do get 15GB of data every month.

T-Mobile and Orange meanwhile both tout it for the slightly lower monthly charge of £25, but the EE-owned outfits set the upfront cost at £229 and there's only 1GB of anytime data with that. Shop around.

Of course, if you have the moolah, it's probably worth opting for a Sim-only deal. We've compared the 12-month Sim-only options for your convenience already, complete with EE's 4G plans. A monthly Sim-only contract comparison is on the way soon, though. Watch this space. ®