Telstra, Vodafone and Optus appear to have missed out on being able to sell the new iPad2.
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Telstra, who have already admitted that they don’t have access to the device have started pushing data SIM cards in an effort to jump on the tab sales bandwagon.
Peter Simons, Telstra spokesman, confirmed today that the telco does not have access to the product.
In the past, Telstra, Vodafone and Optus all had access to the first iPad.
The original Apple statement issued earlier this week said “iPad 2 will be available at Apple retail stores and selected Apple Authorised Resellers at 5 p.m.”
So either Telstra has lost their status as an authorised Apple reseller or else there are shortages of the device, meaning sellers outside the Apple Store network lose out.
Telstra is predicting a surge in tabs growth, despite the absence of the much anticipated Apple flagship tablet from their shelves, which is due out here tomorrow.
It has instead sought to promote its micro-SIM cards, in a bid to capitalise on the release.
Vodafone Hutchinson Australia have also confirmed they are not selling the iPad 2, telling Smarthouse, “VHA sell plans and microsims for the iPad not the actual device itself.”
“Customers are telling us they love the freedom that tablets offer, with research predicting tablet sales will triple in Australia in 2011,” says Telstra spokesperson, Craig Middleton.
More than 100,000 Australians have already connected tablets to the Telstra Next G network, the telco has said.
Telstra’s Pre-Paid micro-SIM starter kits come with 3GB data to access internet on the go. Data allowance is valid for 30 days and cannot be used while roaming overseas.
Recharge rates start from $20 for 1GB of data for use over 30 days and range up to a $150 recharge that allows customers to enjoy 12GB of data over a massive 365 day expiry period.
