Tuesday, February 14, 2012

How I Became My Own Wireless Hot Spot

The Problem


Having purchased a wifi-only Android tablet last year, I quickly realized the challenges of carrying a device whose full potential was only realized with an Internet connection. While still capable of performing impressive tasks and entertaining my family with countless games and other apps, the tablet was limited in its functionality when not online. Many of the applications installed on the device were also hindered by a lack of connectivity.

This situation made what should have been a powerful and efficient mobile device little more than a fancy toy. I found myself unacceptably excited every time I drove past a restaurant that advertised Free Wi-Fi, or even worse, a Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX). The presence of free Wi-Fi slowly became a relevant factor in my travel destination choices as my use of the tablet grew more involved.