Japanese major cell phone carriers release iPad mini cellular model

Japanese carriers KDDI Corp. and Softbank Mobile Corp. on Friday started selling Apple Inc.'s iPad mini with cellular connectivity compatible with high-speed data communication using the LTE network service. Softbank monopolized sales in Japan of the iPhone as well as the iPad with cellular capabilities before KDDI's entry into the Apple device market by selling iphones in October 2011, while KDDI is adding the iPad tablet devices to its lineup in addition to iPhone smartphones. The iPad mini with only Wi-Fi function hit Apple stores and major home electronics retailers on Nov. 2.