Israel bans imports of Apple iPad
JERUSALEM. April 16. KAZINFORM Israel has banned imports of Apple Inc.'s hottest new product, the iPad, citing concerns the powerful gadget's wireless signals could disrupt other devices; Kazinform refers to China Daily.
Customs officials said Thursday they have already confiscated about 10 of the lightweight tablet computers since Israel announced the new regulations this week. The ban prevents anyone - even tourists - from bringing iPads into Israel until officials certify that they comply with local transmitter standards.
The US Federal Communications Commission allows devices with Wi-Fi capability to broadcast at higher power levels than are allowed in Europe and Israel - meaning that the iPad's stronger signal could throw off others' wireless connections, Schubert said.
The iPad combines the features of a notebook computer with the touch-pad functions of the iPod. It went on sale in the US on April 3. Apple this week delayed its international launch until May 10, citing heavy sales in the US.
Israeli officials said the ban has nothing to do with trade and is simply a precaution to assure that the iPad doesn't affect wireless devices already in use in Israel.
Although Israeli standards are similar to those in many European nations, Israel is the only country so far to officially ban imports; Kazinform cites China Daily. See www.chinadaily.com.cn for full version.