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Question

Cell phone as hotspot

Aug 18, 2013 6:46AM PDT

My cellphone (Samsung S3) has hotspot capability and I would like to use it to access the internet from my ipad and laptop. Can I just enable the capability on the phone? Or do I have to sign up for access with my cell provider? They want $10/month additional for hotspot, but i feel if the phone already has the capability, that i would be paying $10 for nothing.

Discussion is locked

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Clarification Request
Which cellular carrier???
Aug 18, 2013 12:08PM PDT

With Verizon, I pay nothing additional to use my phone's hotspot feature. Just uses my data allowance. I can connect my iPad and laptop wirelessly at the same time.

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cellular carrier
Aug 19, 2013 12:15AM PDT

boost mobile

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Hotspot
Aug 19, 2013 1:17AM PDT

.....is a phone feature and not a billed feature, but as mentioned it will use your data allowance. I don't think you will have a problem w/ Boost mobile.

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Answer
I'm sure your phone has the capability.
Aug 18, 2013 7:03AM PDT

But some confuse that with ability or if the feature is enabled or not. These are not the same thing. So talk to your provider about this.
Bob

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Answer
No need to pay..!!
Aug 18, 2013 9:18PM PDT

Your phone is hotspot enabled so, you just have to enable your thatering service and use wifi on any device. It will just use your internet data and nothing else.