New iPad WiFi issue may have Apple’s attention

The third time isn’t quite the charm. Apparently, Apple’s legacy of early onset WiFi issues in its iPads continues in the new generation. Just weeks after the launch of the third generation, 9to5Mac reports that Apple appears to be investigating the reception issues in the new iPad after a growing number of complaints about spotty connections.

The site says it obtained a screenshot of an AppleCare memo, directing employees to collect and replace troubled third-generation iPads displaying symptoms such as “intermittent connectivity,” “slow WiFi speeds” or not seeing the network.

The screen shot reads, “In the United States, contact centers and retail stores should capture iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi only devices if they exhibit any issue related to Wi-Fi.”

This “capture” directive relates only to the WiFi models, according to 9to5Mac.

Users reported the WiFi in the new iPad was significantly weaker than iPad 2, their iPhones and MacBook laptops on AppleCare support discussion threads almost immediately.

Although this memo appears to focus only on the Wi-Fi models, the AppleCare threads have reports from owners of the 4G LTE models as well.

Weak Wi-Fi seems to almost be a standard part of an iPad launch. Both previous generations had difficulty with WiFi just out of the gate, with users complaining of weak reception and problems connecting to a network.

Apple acknowledged in 2010 that a small number of first-gen iPads had connectivity problems and, with the second generation, resolved the issues in 2011 with a software update.

RELATED:

Gripes about new iPad: The list goes on

New iPad names causes some confusion

Apple offering iPad 4G refunds in Australia

Follow Michelle Maltais on Google+, Facebook or Twitter

New iPad Wifi issue may have Apple’s attention