Manchester United has introduced some new technology-hating security measures for the upcoming football season, banning fans from bringing iPads into the club’s Old Trafford ground.
With the new Premier League season kicking off this Saturday, August 16, the club has warned fans that they will no longer be allowed to take large electronic devices in to the stadium on match days, with the move coming as part of “some changes to the Club policy”.
Although the ban will cover all tablets greater than 150mm x 100mm in size, the football club has singled out both the iPad and the iPad mini as no-goes for the upcoming season.
“
Detailing exactly what is meant by a ‘large electronic device’, the club adds: “Any electronic device that is larger than the maximum permitted dimensions of 150mm x 100mm. This includes laptops and tablet devices such as iPads (including iPad minis).
Although smartphones will still be permitted into the ground – assuming they are beneath the size restrictions – those looking to fill their trip to the game with a bit of tablet usage will need to think again.
The move follows requests from airports that passengers travelling to the US be able to power up all electronic devices in order for them to be permitted onto the aircraft.
Unlike these international transport hubs, however, Man United have stated the club does not have the security manpower to operate similar checks.
“The configuration of the stadium and arrival profile of spectators means that it is impractical to deal with individual requests of this nature,” the club’s statement reads.
“We apologise for any inconvenience that this might cause but we are committed to putting the safety and security of all supporters as our number one priority.”
It is currently unclear what will happen to barred devices seized from football fans on their way into the stadium. Ironically, the club’s official store does still sell Mancheseter United branded iPad cases.
Read More: Adidas miCoach Smart Ball review
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
