iPhone OS 3.0 Allows Tethering
March 19, 2009
During this weeks iPhone OS 3.0 event, Apple's Senior VP for iPhone Software Scott Forestall admitted that Apple already built tethering support into the most current beta iPhone OS build, but it was up to the mobile carriers to figure out the rest.
One developer admitted to "hacking around" the new build and was somehow able to accidentally activate the feature. The developer claims he was actually able to use the service as well through a USB connection. If the photos are any indication, tethering will be allowed through USB as well as over Bluetooth.
For those of you that are unaware, tethering is a feature that allows you to share your iPhone's internet connection with your laptop. AT&T doesn't currently offer this option for the iPhone. Mobile carriers generally charge an extra fee to use this service.
It will be interesting to see what AT&T along with other mobile carriers choose to do with this service for the iPhone. If the SXSW festival is any indication, AT&T is going to have to better stabilize their data services before allowing tethering for the iPhone.
[via MacRumors]