Verizon to offer 3GB, 5GB iPad data plans

Verizon Wireless will offer 3GB and 5GB data plans for the Apple iPad, in addition to the 1GB plan it initially announced yesterday morning.

According to a Verizon iPad FAQ, a 3GB data plan will cost $35 per month and a 5GB plan will lay you back $50. The 1GB plan costs $20 monthly.

Verizon's decision to offer 3GB and 5GB plans could force AT&T's hand.

AT&T currently offers a 250MB and 2GB option for $14.99 and $25, respectively. AT&T said in an e-mailed statement that it would not comment on whether it will offer more data plans for the iPad.

Connecting to Verizon's 3G network on an iPad will take a little more effort than connecting to AT&T's service. Verizon will be selling Wi-Fi-only iPads that come with its MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot. Those bundles will cost $630, $730, and $830 for the 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB iPad models, respectively. When Verizon iPad owners are away from a Wi-Fi connection, they will need to connect their tablet to the MiFi 2200 to access Verizon's 3G network. The MiFi 2200 allows up to five wireless devices to connect to the network simultaneously.

AT&T customers can simply buy an iPad featuring Wi-Fi and 3G for $629, $729, or $829, depending on hard drive size, and automatically connect to the carrier's high-speed service from the tablet without needing an additional device.

Both Verizon and AT&T will start selling Apple's iPad in their stores on October 28.