Verizon surprised the the world today by announcing it will carry the iPad in its stores. The deal will use the Wi-Fi models of each but bundle them with a Novatel MiFi 2200 to share a 3G connection with both the iPad and four other devices. Verizon is also offering a special iPad plan that gives these buyers 1GB of data for the MiFi every month for $20.
The bundle isn’t mandatory; Verizon will let shoppers simply walk in and buy a Wi-Fi iPad by itself.
Stores will start carrying the iPad on October 28. The 16GB, 32GB and 64GB iPad modles will be carried by Verzion. All versions come without contracts. Buying a Wi-Fi version without the MiFi costs as much as it does from any other channel.
The deal is Apple’s first ever with Verizon and immediately lends more credence to leaks detailing a iPhone on Verizon early next year.
