KDDI Corp. and Softbank Mobile Corp. began selling Apple Inc.'s iPad mini Friday with cellular connectivity compatible with high-speed data communications using the LTE network service.

KDDI, provider of au mobile communications services, is adding the tablet computer to its lineup in addition to the iPhone smartphones it has been selling since October 2011.

Softbank monopolized Japan sales of the iPhone as well as the standard iPad with cellular capabilities before KDDI's entry into the market. Softbank and KDDI also released the new iPad 4, which is the same size as older versions of the tablet but has better functions.

A Wi-Fi-only version of the iPad mini hit Apple stores and major home electronics retailers Nov. 2.