The digital era is all about staying connected. From remote work to streaming entertainment, connectivity is non-negotiable, and terms like “Wi-Fi” and “hotspot” are part of our everyday vocabulary. Although often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Wi-Fi lets your device wirelessly connect to the internet through a local area network. A mobile hotspot, however, leverages cellular data to act as an internet source for other devices. But did you know you can use wifi and hotspot in Android devices at the same time? Let’s delve into this convergence of technologies and how it can be a game-changer.
How to activate WiFi and hotspot in Android
- Open the “Settings” app on your Android device.
- Scroll down and tap on “Network & Internet.”
- Select “Hotspot & Tethering.”
- You will see an option labelled “Use Wi-Fi Hotspot” or something similar, depending on your device and Android version. Enable this option.
The History of Wi-Fi and Mobile Hotspots
Before we explore the intricacies of using WiFi and hotspot in Android simultaneously, it’s essential to acknowledge their history. Wi-Fi originated in the late 1990s as a technology to link cash registers wirelessly. It has since transformed into the backbone of wireless networking in homes and businesses. Mobile hotspots followed a similar trajectory, evolving from clunky, dedicated hardware devices to nifty features built into smartphones. The two technologies have always had separate lanes, until now.
Also Read: How To Connect Your Desktop To Wifi Internet Using An Android Smartphone
WiFi and Hotspot in Android: Is it Possible?
Android has been a platform of limitless possibilities, often ahead of its iOS counterpart in features and flexibility. Using WiFi and hotspot in Android devices simultaneously was challenging a few years ago and required device rooting. Thanks to software updates and hardware advancements, the feature is natively supported on many Android devices.
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Not so long ago, using wifi and hotspot in android device were mutually exclusive tasks. If one were enabled, the other had to be turned off. This limitation was primarily due to how the network stack was designed in Android’s architecture.
Early versions of Android didn’t allow the Wi-Fi hardware to perform multiple operations concurrently. With newer hardware capabilities and software updates, the Android ecosystem has eradicated this limitation for most devices. This feature is handy for individuals who need to share a Wi-Fi connection but also want to maintain their device’s connectivity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Activation
Activating wifi and hotspot in android is simpler than ever. Follow the steps below to get started:
Quick Settings Panel:
- Swipe down from the top of your screen to reveal the Quick Settings panel.
- Locate the “Hotspot” or “Mobile Hotspot” icon and tap on it.
This will activate wifi and Hotspot in Android while keeping your Wi-Fi enabled. But remember, this is the simplest and fastest way to enable it, and it might not offer you the full range of customizable options.
Why Would You Want to Use Wi-Fi and Hotspot on Android Simultaneously?
The primary question to ask is, why use WiFi and Hotspot in Android at the same time? The answer lies in practical scenarios:
- Hotels with Device Limitations: Some hotels charge per device or limit the number of connected devices. Using WiFi and Hotspot in Android bypasses this restriction.
- Extend Connectivity: If you’re in a location where the Wi-Fi signal is weak, your Android device can serve as a bridge, relaying a more robust signal to other devices.
- Specialised Devices: Some gadgets may not easily connect to specific networks due to network restrictions or compatibility issues. Your Android device can serve as an intermediary.
Wi-Fi and Hotspot in Android: Band and Sharing Options
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Android allows flexibility when it comes to how you want to share the internet via your hotspot:
- Share Over: You can share the internet over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Go for Wi-Fi since it’s quicker than Bluetooth.
- Band Selection: Modern routers support dual bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. You can choose which band you’d like your hotspot to operate on. The 5 GHz band is faster but requires device compatibility.
Limitations and Third-Party Solutions
While this is a compelling feature, there are limitations to be aware of:
- Device and Version Specific: The ability to use Wi-Fi and a mobile hotspot simultaneously may be restricted to specific devices or Android versions. It’s always a good idea to consult your device’s manual or official website for information.
Also Read: How to Increase Internet Speed in PC & mobile
- Battery Drain: Using both features simultaneously can tax your device’s battery. Ensure you’re aware of the battery implications before using this feature extensively.
- Data Caps: If you’re using a third-party app to share a cellular data connection, be aware of any data limits imposed by your carrier.
Summary
The power to use WiFi and hotspot in Android simultaneously represents a form of technological convergence that underlines the platform’s flexibility. Whether to bypass device restrictions in hotels or to extend Wi-Fi coverage, the utility is evident.
As mobile technology continues to advance, features like these remind us how far we’ve come since the inception of Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots. As we embrace the future, the ability to use WiFi and hotspot in Android simultaneously is not just a feature; it’s a symbol of technological evolution.
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