Apple will be obliged to warn UAE consumers that its new iPad is not compatible with local 4G networks, amid concerns over "misleading" claims about the device.
One of the new iPad's key selling points is 4G mobile-internet, which runs at more than double the speed of other networks.
However, the iPad, launched this month, is not compatible with the 4G networks found in the Middle East. The device is sold on the grey market in the UAE - often at a premium to the US list price.
Upon the official launch of the iPad in the UAE, Apple will be asked to clarify the 4G issue to avoid misleading consumers, authorities said.
"We will ask Apple to highlight this in their point of sale, because that's fair for consumers to know," said Mohamed Al Ghanim, the director general of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). "We don't want to deceive the customer, at the end of the day," he added.
Several Middle Eastern operators have installed long-term evolution (LTE) networks, which are often marketed as 4G. The new iPad works on LTE networks running at the 700 and 2,100 megahertz frequencies, which are used by operators in the United States. But most of the Middle East's 4G networks operate at different ranges.
While it is still possible to surf the internet via Wi-Fi and 3G, users in the Middle East are not able to access the faster connections.
Mr Ghanim ruled out a ban on the device, and said he was hopeful Apple would create a version of the iPad that was compatible with Middle East 4G networks.
"There is no reason to ban the device. We are not going to ban it," he said. "The good news for UAE customers is that Apple should create a version that would work for the rest of the world … I'm hopeful that they will do it."
In Australia, the consumer affairs regulator on Tuesday accused Apple of misleading consumers, because the iPad does not work as a 4G device in that country.
Apple may offer refunds to Australian buyers of the new iPad, disappointed that the device is not compatible with local networks.
The situation is different in the UAE, because the iPad has not been officially launched here and is only available on the grey market.
Despite this, local retailers are not taking chances and are already warning consumers over the 4G issue.
Ashish Panjabi, the chief operating officer for Jacky's Electronics, said the retailer was informing customers about the 4G issue before they bought an iPad.
"If people are buying it expecting a faster network speed, it's not going to happen. We've been clear on that since day one," he said.
"We've been very clear in terms of informing customers beforehand that it says 4G, but it isn't 4G."
Julien Pascual, the chief executive of EmiratesAvenue.com, an online shopping portal based in Dubai, said the site was also warning customers about the lack of 4G compatibility.
"Getting returns is very, very expensive, given the margins we have on an iPad," Mr Pascual said. "It's important for us that clients are aware."
The problem with the new iPad may be short-lived, given that the UAE regulator plans to open up the 700 megahertz frequency used by the US version of the iPad.
"We are going to work with the operators to expedite the 700 megahertz frequency band," said Mr Ghanim.
"The TRA is in its phase to open it up for the operators to use … Then the new iPad will work," he added.
While Mr Ghanim said the 700 megahertz frequency may be opened up by next year, its use would depend on local operators launching 4G services on that band.
[ bflanagan@thenational.ae ]
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Stuck in a job without a pay rise? Here's what to do
Chris Greaves, the managing director of Hays Gulf Region, says those without a pay rise for an extended period must start asking questions – both of themselves and their employer.
“First, are they happy with that or do they want more?” he says. “Job-seeking is a time-consuming, frustrating and long-winded affair so are they prepared to put themselves through that rigmarole? Before they consider that, they must ask their employer what is happening.”
Most employees bring up pay rise queries at their annual performance appraisal and find out what the company has in store for them from a career perspective.
Those with no formal appraisal system, Mr Greaves says, should ask HR or their line manager for an assessment.
“You want to find out how they value your contribution and where your job could go,” he says. “You’ve got to be brave enough to ask some questions and if you don’t like the answers then you have to develop a strategy or change jobs if you are prepared to go through the job-seeking process.”
For those that do reach the salary negotiation with their current employer, Mr Greaves says there is no point in asking for less than 5 per cent.
“However, this can only really have any chance of success if you can identify where you add value to the business (preferably you can put a monetary value on it), or you can point to a sustained contribution above the call of duty or to other achievements you think your employer will value.”
How I connect with my kids when working or travelling
Little notes: My girls often find a letter from me, with a joke, task or some instructions for the afternoon, and saying what I’m excited for when I get home.
Phone call check-in: My kids know that at 3.30pm I’ll be free for a quick chat.
Highs and lows: Instead of a “how was your day?”, at dinner or at bathtime we share three highlights; one thing that didn’t go so well; and something we’re looking forward to.
I start, you next: In the morning, I often start a little Lego project or drawing, and ask them to work on it while I’m gone, then we’ll finish it together.
Bedtime connection: Wake up and sleep time are important moments. A snuggle, some proud words, listening, a story. I can’t be there every night, but I can start the day with them.
Undivided attention: Putting the phone away when I get home often means sitting in the car to send a last email, but leaving it out of sight between home time and bedtime means you can connect properly.
Demystify, don’t demonise your job: Help them understand what you do, where and why. Show them your workplace if you can, then it’s not so abstract when you’re away - they’ll picture you there. Invite them into your “other” world so they know more about the different roles you have.
