The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority is investigating claims by Apple that its new iPad supports fourth-generation (4G) mobile networks. According to a report by the BBC, the regulator is concerned that Apple may not be complying with an agreement to amend claims about the tablet computer’s capabilities.
The new iPad supports long-term evolution (LTE) networks in the US and Canada. In North America, operators describe these networks as “4G”, even though there is controversy elsewhere in the world, including SA, as to whether first-generation LTE constitutes 3G or 4G. Previously, the International Telecommunication Union defined 4G as mobile networks that can support theoretical download speeds of at least 1Gbit/s when stationary and 100Mbit/s when moving.
LTE networks outside North America work on different frequencies in the radio spectrum and are not compatible with the new iPad.
According to the BBC report, the British Advertising Standards Authority has received dozens of complaints from consumers who feel they have been duped by Apple’s 4G claims. The authority had ordered Apple to remove marketing claims on its UK website about the iPad’s 4G capabilities but is reportedly concerned the order hasn’t been complied with fully.
The American technology giant has also faced pressure from Australian regulators over the 4G claims. — (c) 2012 NewsCentral Media
- Image: John Karakatsanis