I can't say for sure, but that is likely something mandated by the carrier - in Verizon's case, I highly doubt that you'd be able to pull it off without paying.
(Anything is may be possible with root, of course.)
This is sad, I may have to look into this a bit before purchasing. But I'm thinking root will come to both...eventually. I currently have VZW and I'm tethered for free. Was still tethered before root, but it's been awhile.
Well, I went to VZW and played with the G2 and the Moto X. I have to admit, the G2 really impressed me with its slim size and being much more lightweight than I expected.
Respectively, the Moto X also felt much more sturdy than I thought it would be, as long as you got one of the backings that were more rubberized and less plastic.
I think I made my decision, and it was pretty easy after playing with them, the Moto X was just much more comfortable and usable...by a LONG shot. Ignoring the specs, the software is just leaps and bounds above the G2. The G2 is basically a large screened, speedy, clusterfrick. There was so much going on, it honestly was giving me a headache. It's like they took every half-assed idea they could think of and just threw it in the phone to see what worked. Great, but not for me. I REALLY liked Motorola's focused, clean, and smooth approach to everything.
Another large factor was the size. I'm not a big fan of big screens. I could barely get my hands around the G2. I drive A LOT, and I could see that being much more burdensome.
Finally, I was impressed by the Moto Connect thing. I work some days in an office, and that'll be sweet in meetings or at my desk. The size will keep it slim when I'm at events in my suit as well.
I've also started a construction company, so there are days when I'm outside working...hence durability importance. And the small size will be easier to keep safe in my pocket and such.
Thanks for your input everyone. I don't think I'm pulling the trigger till Sunday or Monday, so feel free to let me know of anything else that may sway my decision. It is possible