AT&T to launch $3 unlimited data day pass. Is there a catch?

iPad users can now access the internet without WiFi, without worrying about data limits, and without the need for a wireless carrier subscription — at least for 24 hours.

AT&T just announced a new service on Wednesday called the Unlimited Day Pass. For just $3 per day, any eSIM-capable iPad can connect to the internet even without a WiFi connection. AT&T is also offering one complimentary Unlimited Day Pass for each iPad customer.

Furthermore, the day pass includes unlimited wireless data. Plus, there's no subscription, contract, or any sort of long-term commitment. Users can simply sign up for a one-time $3 Unlimited Day Pass anytime they like and as many times as they like, according to an AT&T press release. iPad users don't even need to be an AT&T customer, meaning T-Mobile, Verizon, and other customers can purchase the new pass as well.

AT&T says iPad users can activate an Unlimited Day Pass directly from their device's Settings app. An option to sign up for the Unlimited Day Pass will appear under the Cellular Data section.

Wireless carriers already offer international day passes, but AT&T is pitching the Unlimited Day Pass as a solution for domestic travelers. However, there are some caveats that we should note.

The Unlimited Day Pass is only for iPad users in the U.S. and only works with iPad models with eSIM capabilities. Basically, if the iPad is the "WiFI + Cellular" model, it should work. AT&T says it's planning to roll out the Unlimited Day Pass to other 5G-capable devices, such as Android tablets, smartwatches, laptops, and drones, in the near future. Interestingly, AT&T did not list smartphones as devices that will get Unlimited Day Pass access.