Apple iPad Air 2 allows users to switch wireless carriers easily

Apple's new iPad Air 2, announced on Thursday, will allow subscribers to switch wireless carriers much more easily, by swiping an icon across the screen of the device.

The feature, available thanks to a neutral Apple SIM card installed in the device, will allow customers to sign up for short-term service plans and switch carriers using their iPad, the company said.

The SIM card supports AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint high speed networks. For service from the largest US carrier, Verizon Wireless, customers need to install a separate Verizon SIM card.

The feature allows customers to switch carriers based on their monthly needs, like bigger data buckets, more reliable connections or cheaper prices.

Subscribers traveling can also plug into international carriers' networks and purchase temporary contracts through the iPad, the company said.

(Reuters)