Rogers makes free data tethering permanent
updated 10:10 am EDT, Wed March 24, 2010
Rogers edges rivals, AT&T in tethering options
Rogers today revealed that its free data tethering promo is becoming a permanent fixture of its plans. The move gives anyone with a Canadian 1GB or larger data plan the option of using an iPhone or other tethering-capable smartphone as a 3G Internet connection for a computer without having to incur a separate charge. Any data used for tethering is simply taken out of the existing monthly transfer allowance, Rogers said.
The deal, which had originally been set to expire May 3rd, still carries certain limits. It can't be used with the new US data roaming plans and is also excluded from shared plans for family voice-and-data combos as well as shared 3G modem plans, although the nature of these adapters does little to prevent sharing over Wi-Fi.
The move is likely a reaction to the launch last fall of HSPA+ networks at Bell and Telus. Both have included tethering in their newer smartphone plans as a matter of course and are widely believed to be responsible for an earlier extension of Rogers' tethering promo. All three carriers contrast sharply against AT&T in the US, which normally charges $30 extra for tethering and has yet to allow it on the iPhone almost a year after it promised that the feature was "coming soon."
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Feb 2009
Canada wins!
It seems like Canadians won't have any need for 3G iPads then. I don't think there is any way Apple can force us to buy contracts for the things if all the carriers allow tethering. They'd have a revolt on their hands.