If you’re the proud owner of an Android gadget then you’ll most likely navigate your way around the web with ease. This also means that you’re getting some speedy downloads whether you’re on LTE or other technologies such as HSPA or WiMax. These kinds of speeds could prove more than enough for a tablet, a laptop or even a computer. But if you feel you’re in a “sharing mood” then you will definitely need to tether (unless you have access to some other tech).
Unfortunately for you and all the customers out there, wireless carriers demand extra payments for tethering privileges. This demand has absolutely no basis on which it’s placed since there is practically zero difference between navigating the web (which means using data) with your smartphone or tablet, computer and laptop. The carriers wouldn’t register any higher maintenance costs to account for the extra money they charge for tethering. This is only a scheme which enables them to charge more money for a service they already got covered at 0 costs.
Fortunately Android stands for freedom of innovation which means its got its own arsenal of tethering apps and options. Unlike iPhone tethering apps you won’t even have to penetrate the phone’s system to install an “unauthorized” app. With Android as OS you have a plethora of apps to choose from when it comes to tethering. Here are some of the best you can find on Google Play.
Android Tethering App
Though there are quite a few apps with more advanced users with special customizations, the Wireless Tether for Root Users app is the basic choice for the basic Android user which simply wants to expand its internet connection to other gadgets. The best thing about it is that it’s free of charge which means that you’ve got into Google Play, download the app, install it and you’ve got your own mobile hotspot already pumping signal around the house. Of course there are some minor drawbacks. First of all you would have to root your phone in order to use the app. Secondly the app does not support USB tethering which means you will have to do with Wi-Fi transfer. While USB tethering meant a bit more transfer speed, Wi-Fi should suffice for your basic needs.
If you want something with a little bit more of a kick, then there is the PdaNet app. This one comes with a series of more advanced feats and allows you to tether with a PC, Mac, MacBook, Laptop or other device via Bluetooth or USB. This means that you will be getting stop speed from your connection. All you have to do is install the main app on your phone and the companion desktop app on your machine and you should be good to go. Not to mention that this app will not require you to root your phone. While PdaNet is definitely superior to the Wireless Tether for Root Users it has a single major drawback: it cannot provide Wi-Fi hotspot. This is quite a predicament since you cannot connect to any other wireless gadget without using the aide of a PC. The other drawback is that you’ll have to pay $15.95 for the full version. PdaNet also provides a free version but it won’t do you much good since it’s designed to block secure websites such as Gmail.
Android Tethering App
Another option for tethering is going for the Barnacle Wifi Tether app. This is another cool option of obtaining hassle free, fast wireless service. It does basically the same things as the Wireless Tether for Root Users and will also necessitate a rooted Android phone on which it can be installed. One of the cool things about it is that it can show you your data traffic in real time. But still, what makes Barnacle Wifi Tether is that it has compatibility with Linux which means a big YES. On the other hand, while Barnacle Wifi Tether works exceptionally well when it works, but if for some reason it should cease working, you will basically be left in the dark. You don’t have many troubleshooting options for it, and you won’t be able to find out what went wrong with ease since it doesn’t provide much in its Help menu. You’ll have to figure out things yourself (most likely reset the phone, cross your fingers and hope it will work again) since there aren’t many places where you can call for help. At least this app also comes for free and provides excellent Wi-Fi tethering.
Then there is the Wi-Fi Tethering app developed by OpenGardeon. This app is also much similar to Barnacle. It will also require a rooted phone to be installed on. Unlike Barnacle, here you also have a GetSatisfaction forum that can be of great use to you when you’re stuck or are having trouble configuring the app. Still the app works quite well but, there is basically no way to separate it from the Wireless Tether app. This one comes with a pretty interface and that’s about it. You won’t be seeing other special things about it besides that.
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