AT&T Plans to Support Personal Hotspot WiFi Tethering

Apple iOS users are sure to the be excited about the Personal Hotspot WiFi tethering feature that will be available in the iOS 4.3 update for the iPhone, but word has it that the feature will only be available where carriers support it. According to this AppleInsider report, AT&T has confirmed it is working with Apple to ensure it can support the feature.

While the AT&T spokesman, Seth Bloom, stopped short of sharing with AppleInsider when Personal Hotspot will be coming to AT&T customers, the comment does offer more confirmation that AT&T plans to support the tethering feature, which will allow users to wirelessly share their 3G data connection with other devices.

AT&T revealed in a press release on Wednesday that it will expand its data cap for tethering customers to 4GB per month, beginning on Feb.13, for $45 per month. The capability, however, will only be available to “select smartphone customers.” The company has made no mention of the iPhone 4 or its Personal Hotspot feature that is expected to be introduced with the iOS 4.3.

A New York Times review of the Verizon iPhone 4 initially shared that AT&T’s iPhone would offer the Personal Hotspot feature on Feb. 13. The review was quickly revised, however, to state that the carrier would simply get the feature “soon.” The date was promptly removed.

Tethering on the iPhone was first supported by AT&T last June, but limitations in Apple’s iOS mobile operating system would only allow the sharing of a 3G data connection over Bluetooth or USB. The feature was also limited in that the iPhone could not be tethered to an iPad.

When the iPhone 4 launches on the Verizon network on Feb. 10, customers will be able to enjoy the Personal Hotspot feature, and a unique version of iOS 4.2.6, which is exclusively for that CDMA-based handset.

In other Apple news, MobilityTechzone reported last month that the iPad maker has been accused by Chinese environmental groups of ignoring their concerns regarding the health and safety problems at factories that supply Apple with components. While Apple continues to deny any problems – and in some cases, any association – with the highlighted companies; the focus on the company is still a negative one.

Customer reference technology and services provider, RO|Innovation released a new mobile customer reference application for Apple iPad and iPhone 4 devices that is designed to equip sales professionals with invaluable customer testimonials and marketing assets irrespective of location or Internet connectivity.