AT&T's iPhone terms forbid tethering
August 6th 2008
According to AT&T's published terms and conditions, iPhone users are prohibited from tethering (ie using their handsets as mobile wi-fi access points).
Here's the salient bit (via Daring Fireball (gay for macs)):
Furthermore, unlimited plans (except for DataConnect and BlackBerry tethered) cannot be used for any applications that tether the device (through use of, including without limitation, connection kits, other phone/PDA-to-computer accessories, Bluetooth or any other wireless technology) to laptops, PCs, or other equipment for any purpose. [Continue reading]
This passage explains, at least superficially, why Apple pulled Nullriver's NetShare, a tethering application, from the AppStore.
Trivial disappointment
The current form of capitalism trivializes choice by presenting us with dozens if not hundreds of pointlessly undifferentiated products--my favorite example is the range of toothpastes available in the supermarket, though the fundamental lack of real choice in the wireless market is just as illustrative.
Being able to choose to use the iPhone, or any other phone, however one wants (ie choosing to tether) is a real, empowering choice.
If AT&T or other carriers have to drop some of their undifferentiated handsets and marketing to "allow" real choice (ie tethering, network neutrality, etc), I'm pretty sure I could live with that "sacrifice"...
What's your take?
