Lack of 4G networks will not affect popularity of new iPad in Middle East

One of the major additions to the new iPad was 4G connectivity, but as of yet it will only be enjoyed by US customers.

"Due to limited 4G Network, the only consumers that will benefit from the 4G connectivity at the moment are the ones based in USA. 4G connectivity was a strategic move by Apple to compete with Samsung - as their Galaxy tab already had 4G connectivity," Jonas Zelba, Research Analyst, Information and Communication Technologies Practice, Middle East and North Africa, Frost & Sullivan, tells AMEinfo.

Middle East 4G coverage is patchy

In the Middle East, 4G coverage is extremely patchy. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are the only two countries to have announced 4G networks in the region. In the UAE, coverage is still poor.

"Currently, the 4G network in the UAE is still in its development stage. Although both operators have launched the 4G in UAE, the coverage is still very limited," explains Zelba.

When contacted by AMEinfo, telecom provider Du was unable to comment on whether the new iPad could be used with 4G network connectivity in the UAE.

New iPad still expected to perform well in Middle East

Despite this, the iPad is still expected to perform well in this region. "4G is one of the four major updates that the new iPad has.

However, we do not feel that 4G connectivity and service availability will affect the popularity of the new iPad. Most of the consumers will buy the new iPad for the retina display, better camera and more powerful processor. Apple sold three million of new iPads over the first weekend - so it is evident that this tablet is very popular," affirms Zelba.

Many countries in the Middle East are carrying out trials for 4G networks, with experts such as Frost & Sullivan predicting that Bahrain will be the next country to introduce 4G, in Q2 2012.