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What is Bluetooth tethering, and how does it work?
Bluetooth tethering offers a way to securely share mobile data from your phone to other devices via a Bluetooth connection.
You may have tried to share mobile data via a mobile hotspot on your phone. And while it is quick, easy, and convenient, it’s not the only way to share mobile data. Bluetooth tethering offers a solid alternative for those seeking more security when sharing data with other devices.
Follow along to learn all you need to know about Bluetooth tethering, how to use it to keep multiple devices online, and how you can get unlimited data to share even when traveling internationally with Holafly Connect.
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Share data without limits with Holafly Connect eSIM plans
What is Bluetooth tethering?
Bluetooth tethering is a way to wirelessly share your phone’s internet connection with another device via Bluetooth. When tethered, both devices can access the internet with mobile data from your cellular plan.
How does Bluetooth tethering work?
With Bluetooth tethering, you can pair two devices together and transmit a data connection from one mobile device to another. Bluetooth tethering uses Bluetooth technology to transfer mobile data, much like you would send a picture or video.
How to set up Bluetooth tethering on iPhone
Before trying to share your internet connection with another device, make sure that your iPhone and the other device you’re trying to connect have Bluetooth capability. Once Bluetooth has been enabled on both devices, follow these steps to set up Bluetooth tethering:
- Go to Settings.
- Open the Personal Hotspot settings menu.
- Toggle the Allow Others to Join option to the on position.
- Pair your iPhone to the other device via Bluetooth.
- Tap Pair on your iPhone to complete the Bluetooth pairing.
If you’re trying to share your mobile connection to a laptop, you’ll also need to access your laptop’s Bluetooth settings, select Join a Personal Area Network, and select your phone as the access point.
How to set up Bluetooth tethering on an Android phone
The steps to set up Bluetooth tethering on an Android device are very similar to those of an iPhone. Once again, make sure to enable Bluetooth on both devices before you start, then:
- Open your phone’s Settings.
- Open the Connections menu.
- Open the Mobile Hotspots and Tethering menu.
- Turn on Bluetooth tethering.
- Pair both devices via Bluetooth.
Once again, if you’re trying to tether your phone to a laptop, open your laptop’s Bluetooth settings, select Join a Personal Area Network, and select your phone as the access point.
Pros and cons of Bluetooth tethering
Sharing mobile internet via a Bluetooth connection is great for security and convenient, but it does have its lack speed and range when compared to some other tethering options. Here’s a full breakdown of the pros and cons of Bluetooth tethering.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Security — you must accept the pairing between devices, meaning that no unwanted devices can get network access from you. | Limited range — devices need to be fairly close to one another for a solid Bluetooth connection, and the range is significantly shorter than that of a hotspot. |
| Convenience — Bluetooth tethering allows you to keep multiple devices connected at any time, as long as you have decent cell coverage. | Speed — Bluetooth transfers data more slowly than WiFi or a USB cable, leading to a slower internet connection. |
| Efficiency — Bluetooth uses less energy than creating a WiFi network with a hotspot, preserving your battery life. | Data usage — by sharing cellular data to multiple devices, you’re likely to see an increase in data usage, which can use up your data limit quickly. |
Alternatives to Bluetooth tethering
Don’t feel like Bluetooth tethering is the best option for you? There are a couple of other tethering alternatives you might want to consider for an easy network connection.
- Hotspot tethering — hotspot tethering creates a WiFi network that you can use to connect multiple devices at once. Simply locate your phone’s hotspot on the list of WiFi networks, enter the password, and you’ll be connected. It’s generally faster but less secure than Bluetooth tethering, since anyone can join if they have the password.
- USB tethering — with USB tethering, you can share your phone’s mobile data by physically connecting two devices with a USB cable. Wired connections typically offer the best internet speeds but lack convenience, as devices always have to be connected by a cable.
Share freely with Holafly
Reliable mobile internet is essential for a quality tethering experience. Holafly eSIMs offer a lightning-fast connection in 200+ destinations worldwide, whether you simply need mobile internet for a short international trip or a long-term plan.
All regular Holafly plans offer up to 500 MB or 1 GB of data sharing daily, depending on the destination. You also get 24/7 customer support and unlimited data for your mobile device, so you’ll never lose connection.
If you want more, Holafly Connect offers an eSIM subscription with both 25 GB and Unlimited monthly plans offering unlimited data sharing. The plans range from $39.90/month to $64.90/month and cover 170+ destinations worldwide, making them great for frequent travelers and digital nomads.
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Share data without limits with Holafly Connect eSIM plans
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A senior SEO writer from Lithuania, combining my passion for writing and travel at Holafly. With years of experience in technical fields, I'm here to answer all of your questions about staying connected. I specialize in turning even the most complicated topics into something everyone can understand.
