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Apple had earlier confirmed to sell unlocked iPad 3G but it seems Japan will be an exception. Apple has now said that Softbank Mobile will sell SIM-locked iPad 3Gs in Japan, which means Japanese consumers will be forced to rely on Softbank for 3G internet surfing.

“All Japanese models will be SIM-locked to Softbank Mobile, Apple’s iPhone partner in Japan.”

While Apple didn’t specify the reason, the common practice of selling locked devices in Japan could be the reason. Another thing to note here is that despite the SIM-locked state of iPad, Softbank won’t be selling the device on subsidy.

Apple started taking pre-orders of iPad in nine countries, including Japan. The iPad will ship from May 28.

[Via Appleinsider]