use phone as a mifi device - iPhone/Android?

dilated · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:02

I have been using a payg mifi device for my laptop whenever I am working out and about. In bigger cities I am using it only for a few hours each week, however in some places it is used more and more. Im also thinking of getting an iPhone or Android tablet soon and would want to use this with mifi.

I have a data package via my phone on Three with unlimited data, I assume that this is subject to fair use policy.

I started to think, is it possible to use an iPhone or Android and can anyone comment on how well this works?

Minimoke · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:13

I've got a HTC Desire, and I use the WIFI function on it from time to time with my laptop; good speeds, loads of options for security and whatnot, good stuff really.

sarge78 · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:21

I use my desire all the time as a WiFi router, no issues with o2 or Orange charging me for tethering (although I don't use it for anything heavy, like downloading films etc)

dilated · 15 Nov 2010 at 22:29

I only use it for email (gmail) and light browsing.

It is only possible on the Android? No iPhone?

This will help me decide on my next phone!

brummie · 15 Nov 2010 at 23:40

I use my galaxy s as a wifi access point for 2 (max 5) computers at a time occasionally so i know its do-able.

sarge78 · 16 Nov 2010 at 00:17

You'll need to jailbreak the iPhone for tethering. All 2.2 android phones will have it (not sure about carrier locked phones though?)

It's dead easy on android + its become an essential smartphone feature imo.

Craig321 · 16 Nov 2010 at 00:20

I use PDANet (free on jailbroken iPhones) and it's brilliant. Extremely simply and works perfectly. As you've probably heard, jailbreaking is perfectly safe and legal.

An Android phone should have the feature by default.

It's up to you really if you'd prefer an iPhone or Android phone.

stoke1863 · 16 Nov 2010 at 00:25

I use the bulti in Wi-Fi share option on 2.2 froyo from my Desire HD.

I use it for the ipad meaning i didnt have to pay £100 more for a 3G ipad

dilated · 16 Nov 2010 at 11:17

Craig321 said:
I use PDANet (free on jailbroken iPhones) and it's brilliant. Extremely simply and works perfectly. As you've probably heard, jailbreaking is perfectly safe and legal.

An Android phone should have the feature by default.

It's up to you really if you'd prefer an iPhone or Android phone.

Thanks for this.

Wasnt sure if it was possible on both or even possible at all.

On iPhone or Android - Im big fan of both but as the android is slightly cheaper I may go down this route and with the money saved I might look at the Elonex tablet.