How to Connect an iPod Touch to the Internet Via Cell Phone
By Aaron Wardell
Apple's iPod Touch is an excellent alternative to the iPhone for those who don't need the extra functionality of a phone and 3G data. Connecting to the Internet on the iPod Touch while on the road may seem impossible without a local Wi-Fi connection. If you have another smartphone with the ability to tether wirelessly, however, it's not. It may take a few minutes to configure correctly, but it's well worth the effort.
Set Up and Connect Your iPod Touch
Step 1
Using your mobile smartphone, set up a wireless hotspot or enable its wireless tethering feature. If your smartphone does not come with hotspot functionality, download the proper application first.
Step 2
If necessary, choose a name for the hotspot and set a password. Use the application interface to set these options.
Step 3
Open the "Settings" app on the iPod Touch. Choose the Wi-Fi settings and wait for the hotspot to appear. If your iPod Touch is configured to automatically display a list of hotspots, choose it from the pop-up dialog box when it appears.
Step 4
After choosing the hotspot, open the Safari or Mail app and test the connection.
References
Tips
- When using GSM technology, like AT&T, make sure you have a solid 3G connection to ensure faster data speeds.
- To allow Wi-Fi tethering on the iPhone, it must be jailbroken and the proper application downloaded. iOS 4.3, scheduled for release in February 2011, has this feature built-in and may be available on non-jailbroken iPhones for a monthly fee.
- Compatible smartphones that include Wi-Fi hotspot functionality include the Motorola Droid X, Samsung Epic and HTC EVO. If your phone doesn't natively support it, you may have to download an application first.
Warnings
- Jailbreaking your iPhone, although not technically illegal, can void your warranty and cause other applications to behave differently.
Writer Bio
Aaron Wardell is a freelance writer, professional musician, audiophile, cell phone nut and computer geek. He holds a master's degree in vocal music performance from the University of Cincinnati. His true passions include anything related to classical vocal music and it's performance, including opera, oratorio and choral music.