iPhone OS 3.0 is set to include the ability to tether an iPhone to a computer to share the phone’s 3G connection - basically giving laptop users Internet anywhere via AT&T’s network. There have been successful attempts at tethering iPhones running the 3.0 beta already, but without any information from AT&T about pricing for the additional traffic. Here’s Ars Technica on the subject:>
We asked AT&T how Ars readers might update their iPhone 3G accounts to include tethering. AT&T responded by… not giving us any information. (The carrier said we must contact Apple instead.) After a brief back and forth, it became clear that any discussion regarding modification of iPhone accounts could only be handled by Apple. Our e-mail to Apple, which included AT&T’s redirect, was not answered by publication time.
This type of back and forth has become all too common in the Apple-AT&T relationship. It’s like as children, when mommy said no to ice cream and daddy would say yes and they would end up fighting… awkward for everyone.
In firmware versions before 3.0 Beta, apps like PDANet and others would allow for tethering, but with an official venue in the works, everyone will be able to use it. Granted, I’m sure AT&T will charge for tethering. But I’d bet that AT&T (and/or Apple) didn’t think people would get the beta working so quickly. As with all squabbles, time will tell.