Share internet even without Wi-Fi and hotspot! This is how Bluetooth tethering works

If you want to access the Internet on any device, from a smartphone to a laptop or any other device, most people use a Wi-Fi hotspot. But did you know that there is another way to share internet from phone? This is called Bluetooth tethering. If you understand in simple language, this involves your phone allowing other devices to access the internet via Bluetooth. Android phones have options to share mobile data via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or USB. Let’s explore how Bluetooth tethering works and when it can be beneficial to use.

How does Bluetooth tethering work?

To start Bluetooth tethering, first you need to pair your phone and another device, such as a laptop, via Bluetooth. Pairing means connecting both devices together. After this you have to go to phone settings and turn on bluetooth tethering. Once the connection is made, the other device will be able to use your phone’s internet connection.

In Android phones its settings can usually be found here:

• Go to settings.
• Open the Network and Internet or Connections option.
• Tap on Hotspot and Tethering.
• Turn on Bluetooth tethering.
• Keep in mind that the names or locations of these settings may be slightly different on phones from different companies.

How different is it from a Wi-Fi hotspot?

Both Bluetooth tethering and Wi-Fi hotspots work to extend the Internet from the phone to other devices. But their method is different. Bluetooth tethering speeds are generally slower than Wi-Fi hotspots. So, for tasks like downloading large files or watching videos, a Wi-Fi hotspot can be a better option.

On the other hand, Bluetooth tethering can consume less battery in some situations. According to Motorola’s support document, Bluetooth tethering can be useful if the phone and other device are in close proximity and there are multiple Wi-Fi networks nearby.

When should Bluetooth tethering be used?

Suppose you want to check email or do some internet browsing on your laptop. Bluetooth tethering can be a useful option in such situations. This can also be useful if you don’t want to use a Wi-Fi hotspot and both devices are close to each other. But if you need fast internet, download large files or stream videos, it would be better to use a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Keep these things in mind while using

For Bluetooth tethering, your phone must have an internet connection. Usually mobile data is used for this. Some devices can also share Wi-Fi connections via Bluetooth. Also check if tethering feature is available in your mobile plan. Sharing internet will consume your mobile data. Better to turn off Bluetooth tethering after work is done. This can avoid unnecessary data and battery consumption.

Overall, Bluetooth tethering is another way to share the internet. While this can be useful for light online tasks and devices kept nearby, a Wi-Fi hotspot will be more useful when faster internet is needed.

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