T-Mobile subscribers who aren’t BlackBerry users have been left in the dark in regards to the lack of official tethering support. Well beginning November 3rd, T-Mobile adds a tethering plan to its list of services for all smartphone users to enjoy. For only $14.99 per month, users can enjoy carrier supported tethering and all that is required is to have a unlimited data plan of $19.95 or higher. The tethering plan is applicable to FlexPay users as well. BGR got the inside tip on the matter along with a memo detailing the new plan in full after the break.
Tethering and Wi-Fi Sharing Add-On Feature Launches November 3
Overview
On November 3, T-Mobile will launch a tethering and Wi-Fi sharing add-on feature. This feature will allow customers to use their phone as a modem, enabling them to connect a computer or Wi-Fi capable device to the Web using our 3G or HSPA+ network.
By adding this add-on feature, which will cost $14.99/month, customers will gain access to the Web when they are on the go and wherever T-Mobile has coverage. Although most customers will use their laptop to access our network through their device, they will also be able to connect using any Wi-Fi capable device, like gaming devices, non-T-Mobile tablets like the iPad, and music players. Customers can make the phone-as-modem connection using a USB cable, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi sharing.
Requirements
-
Customers must have a 3G or HSPA+ compatible device to utilize the Tethering/Wi-Fi sharing feature.
-
Customers must have an Unlimited Web feature with an MRC of $19.95 or higher.
-
Customers must add the $14.99 Tethering/Wi-Fi add-on feature.
-
This is a separate add-on feature and in addition to the Unlimited Web feature.
-
Available for postpaid and FlexPay customers. Note: FlexPay customers will need to change their Unlimited Web feature in order for the new tethering add-on feature to work.
Right fitting
Tethering/Wi-Fi sharing will be ideal for customers who:
-
Need occasional access to the Web using a PC or other device.
-
Want a connection to the Web on-the-go, wherever T-Mobile has coverage.
-
Don’t see the need or want the expense of a complete mobile broadband experience, like T-Mobile’s webConnect. Note: customers who intend to use their laptops to access the Web frequently, or use a high amount of data, should consider a webConnect plan.
Additional Details
-
Customers who purchase a T-Mobile mobile broadband product like the upcoming Galaxy Tab should activate with a webConnect plan to ensure the best experience.
-
The set-up process will be determined by the type of device customers own and will be different for every manufacturer.
-
The data accumulated while tethering will count towards customers’ 5GB data speed reduction threshold limit.
-
Because T-Mobile Terms & Conditions have not permitted tethering in the past, those customers who have configured their device for tethering will receive a message on their handset advising them they will need to add the new add-on feature to continue using their device as a modem.
Action
-
Be aware dealers can begin selling the Tetherng/Wi-Fi add-on feature beginning November 3.
-
Review the Grab & Go for additional information.
-
Beginning November 3, refer to policy pages: T-MobileNews > In-Store Polices and Procedures
Read