WiFi + 3G iPad Ships May 7th

Apple has announced shipping dates for the WiFi + 3G iPad, and while we were originally expecting the WWAN-enabled slate to arrive later this month, it seems that's been pushed back to early May.  The 16GB, 32GB and 64GB 3G equipped iPads will begin shipping on May 7th, priced at $629, $729 and $829 respectively.

That's a $130 premium over the standard WiFi only iPads, but it does mean you can use your tablet away from the nearest wireless hotspot.  The 3G modems Apple have used are triband UMTS/HSDPA (850/1900/2100) and are supplied unlocked; that means – if you can find a microSIM to buy – you can use the iPad's connectivity while overseas.  In the US, meanwhile, AT&T are offering two data packages: 250MB per month for $14.99, or unlimited data for $29.99.  These are activated on the iPad itself, and are offered contract-free.

The company recently announced that, due to surprisingly strong sales of the WiFi iPad in the US, and the upcoming launch of the WiFi + 3G model, international availability had been pushed back a month.  Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but preorders will be taken from May 10th.

[Thanks Andrew!]