Can Apple iPhones be used as an Internet modem for computers?

[Ant]

Hello.

Can Apple iPhones (e.g., 4S and its iOS v7.1.2), with its data plan (e.g., 2 GB Verizon Wireless 3G), be used as Internet modems for computers (Mac OS X 10.5.8+, Windows XP+, and Linux/Debian [stable])? If so, then how?

Thank you in advance.

[smith6612]

They can be used both as a USB-connected modem and as a Wi-FI hotspot. Wi-FI Hotspot tends to be the easiest to configure. To turn it on, you'll need to go to Settings > Personal Hotspot and configure the few settings that appear in the menu.

Note that on some older plans, Hotspot or Tethering requires additional payment to use if I remember correctly. On Share Everything plans this is included.

[Ant]

smith6612 wrote:

They can be used both as a USB-connected modem and as a Wi-FI hotspot. Wi-FI Hotspot tends to be the easiest to configure. To turn it on, you'll need to go to Settings > Personal Hotspot and configure the few settings that appear in the menu.

Note that on some older plans, Hotspot or Tethering requires additional payment to use if I remember correctly. On Share Everything plans this is included.

Let's say an iPhone 4S (iOS 7.1.2) has Verzion Wireless' 2 GB data plan used for its 3G Internet stuff. It already has the requirements to provide. Just need to enable its wifi hotspot for other devices to connect to. Am I correct?

[smith6612]

Pretty much. Again though, I do stress that you check to make sure your plan doesn't require an unnecessary (IMO) tethering charge before hotspot can be enabled.

[Ant]

smith6612 wrote:

Pretty much. Again though, I do stress that you check to make sure your plan doesn't require an unnecessary (IMO) tethering charge before hotspot can be enabled.

Will it say it on the bill? It's a family plan (1 iPhone + 2 dumb phones; 2 GB data, 1400 minutes voice; no (text/SMS)ing, etc.).

[smith6612]

It would say in My Verizon as a feature to the phone account. The bill will show if you're paying for hotspot features. Best to double check with Verizon on what their current policy is on this.

[rcschnoor]

Using your iPhone as a hotspot with your 1400 minute Family plan would have a charge of $30/month which would include 2 GB of data.

[Ant]

rcschnoor wrote:

Using your iPhone as a hotspot with your 1400 minute Family plan would have a charge of $30/month which would include 2 GB of data.

Thanks.