Which cell phones can be used as a modem with a laptop?

Question

My current cellphone can, but it is getting old and starting to break. I plug it into my laptop and I can access the internet for free with it, although it does use my "minutes," which is okay. Do any of the wireless companies have this service today? Which ones? Which phones can be used?

Answer 1

Not too many have this anymore. They'd rather you use their high speed services where they can charge you PER KILOBYTE of transfer. You're aware of a little known secret of unlimited free internet that just comes out of plan minutes, albeit at 9k6 data rates. Verizon is the only carrier I know who still has this. Most of their phones will support it if you get the data cable. I just took a look at the specs on their LG VX3400 and it does when you get the USB cable available on eBay for cheap. There may still be a GSM carrier who supports circuit switched data, but you'd have to bring your own dialup ISP where Verizon provides an account to one for free. I believe I checked with T-Mobile a year ago or so and they actually wanted an additional monthly fee to enable CSD!

Answer 2

Alot of phones can, however you only want phones that have EV-DO capability, as they will give you broadband speed data. A large number of these phones can be found on Verizon. All you need to do is subscribe to V-Cast service from them for $15 a month and figure out how to use Bitpim to get free tethering to your laptop. Otherwise VZW will charge you $60 a month for this service.

Answer 3

Yeah, like the first individual stated it actual relies upon on the phone. i recognize with AT&T they have alot of 3G phones, so in case you may extremely opt for to be severe you may get a 3G telephone. 3G internet is like DSL or wireless. in case you dont have a 3G telephone you're stuck with the speed of the internet on your telephone.