Dec
Statistics indicate that Apple’s iPad 3G has enjoyed sales success comparable to that of the Wi-Fi version. Each incarnation of the highly popular device has tallied impressive numbers even prior to their respective official launches, actually causing competitors to shelve plans for similar products. The sales data clearly represent another incredible achievement from the folks at Apple.
Though it is certainly true that the 3G model has a sizable legion of fans, it may not necessarily be the best option available. One problem faced by many is that fact that iPad apps that routinely transmit significant amounts of sound or video across a cellular network are forced to utilize HTTP Live Streaming, and as a result have a 64Kbps limit imposed. While that may not hamper viewing of lower-resolution features such as YouTube or Netflix, there are additional media products that can only be enjoyed via Wi-Fi connections. This fact is frustrating for anyone who has already paid a higher price for a 3G model as well as the $30 monthly cost of an AT&T data package. Under these circumstances, over a single year, the 3G version of the iPad will have required an expenditure of almost $500 more than a Wi-Fi model would have. This begs the question of whether there might be alternative methods or creative work-arounds able to make the Wi-Fi only versions more convenient for those who purchase them.
Make Windows 7 Your Own Hotspot
Hauling a bulky laptop along with an iPad may seem to render the tablet concept somewhat pointless, but for those who tend to carry both with them anyway, mobile Wi-Fi connectivity is easier to achieve than they may have thought. It is possible to use Connectify to transform a Windows-based notebook computer into a Wi-Fi hotspot to which an iPad can be linked to any number of internet service providers. The functionality is free, and operates via Windows 7. Another key feature is the fact that WPA2 encryption is available, thwarting any attempts mobile hackers might make to access your data.
Seek Out No-Cost Wi-Fi Hotspots
It is impossible to avoid being bombarded with Wi-Fi signals from internet service providers almost anywhere you go. It is easy to identify available Wi-Fi signals wherever you are by visiting www.wififreesport.com. This site includes a directory comprised exclusively of no-charge Wi-Fi locations organized by locality.
Get Tethered to Jailbroken Apple iPhones
Though jailbreaking an iPhone is not for novices, and the process certainly voids the phone’s warranty protection, it can provide an amazing array of benefits. Among the perks of jailbreaking is the ability to tether a phone in order to facilitate Wi-Fi functionality. $10 gets you the MyWi app which, when installed on a jailbroken iPhone, provides users the ability to make their own Wi-Fi hotspot with the touch of a button. All iPhone models accept the app, its developers claim that it drains batteries far more slowly than competitors because of its method of routing. You can even download free trials before making a final purchase.
Rooted Android Tethering
No matter if your Android phone is a first generation model or a more recent version, you can reap significant dividends by rooting the device. Key among those benefits is Wi-Fi tethering functionality. There is some third-party technology available that has integrated Wi-Fi tethering, but there are also Android Market apps such as Easy Tether, which costs $10, and the free Barnacle Wi-Fi Tether that can be installed on rooted phones.
Discover the MiFi
In order to circumvent AT&T’s low-resolution limitations on their 3G iPad package, it makes sense to explore the possibility of using the MiFi 2200 from Verizon. The gadget itself is extremely lightweight and is the thickness of several credit cards. Therefore, it is easily transportable. A monthly payment of $40 purchases 250MB of data, and $60 per month offers 5GB. You can also purchase 3G access by the day or the week if a temporary solution is all that is needed. The system provides Wi-Fi functionality to all sorts of devices, such as laptops, netbooks, phones and iPads alike. A great way to lessen the impact of the expense is to reduce the data allotment on your existing phone plan.
Roll a DIY Micro SIM for Your Existing iPad 3G
Those who already own an iPad 3G may be able to avoid the additional monthly expense of a 3G data plan. Anyone with nimble fingers and a brave attitude can perform a bit of surgery on their existing iPhone SIM card to create an iPad-friendly micro SIM. It is possible to find online advice and demonstrations on how to do this, but it is important to note that such methods must be undertaken at the owner’s own risk.
Given the large number of ways in which the functionality of Wi-Fi-only iPads can be maximized, the 3G versions are clearly not the only game in town for users on the move. By employing any one of the techniques described above, it is possible to greatly expand the mobility of these terrifically popular technology tools.
This is a guest article by Ruben Corbo, a writer for the website Broadband Expert where you can find internet service providers in your area and compare prices on different deals for your mobile broadband needs.
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