Apple investigates WiFi issues affecting new iPad

Apple Inc. is investigating the WiFi issues affecting its newest iPad tablet, which include dropped connections, slow speeds, and inability to pick up wireless networks. Enthusiast site 9to5mac.com cited an internal AppleCare document indicating affected iPads brought to Apple stores must be "captured." "According to one source, 'Captured' is code for the device to be immediately packed up and shipped to Apple’s engineering centers for examination and investigation. Apple employees are instructed to Capture the iPad itself and included accessories (the charging adapter and USB cord). Apple will replace affected units," 9to5mac.com said. The screenshot by 9to5mac.com of the internal document indicates symptoms may include:

The 9to5mac.com also noted a thread discussing the issue on Apple’s online support forums has almost amassed 700 replies from users with similar issues. The replies involve the latest iPad getting weak to no signal in an area where adjacent laptops or even original iPads get strong signals. Also, 9to5mac.com said Apple tells AppleCare employees to ensure that devices they test are not facing these issues due to normal software bugs, but instead because of the actual hardware components. "WiFi-only third-generation iPads are the only devices affected by these issues, according to Apple. The 4G LTE models are presumably safe from these issues due to the extra network power allowed by the black rubber cut on the top of the unit," it added. — LBG, GMA News