So based on early looks at android 2.2 Froyo, there will be a mobile hotspot feature. If and when the HTC incredible gets 2.2, is it possible to add this feature via the software or is it hardware dependent?
It is hardware dependent. If you do not have wireless, you cannot use it. That being said, the DInc and all other modern Android handsets have wireless capabilities IIRC. -Nkk
It will also depend on how benevolent the Verizon Wireless overlords are. They might make it free (as how it is on the Palm Pre Plus) or they more than likely will make us pay mucho bucks for it.
Short answer is we don't know. It'll be there but who knows if verizon will lock it down or out. However if and when its rooted that feature will be easily added or unlocked so either way we'll have wireless tethering which is the same thing as a mobile hotspot.
So if the phone has WIFI hardware that can be used as a mobile hotspot with the correct software, just depends on cost... Cool I wouldn't mind paying too much but free is better.
Wireless tethering and mobile hotspots do have differences. Mobile hotspots (generally) allow multiple client connections and do not require software on the client side. Taking the client tethering software out of the equation widens the types of devices that can connect the supported OS's that can connect, and also allows for unplanned devices to connect more easily. That being said, at this point, either one would be sweet.
Its only free on the Pre Plus until end of June. I'm sure once it's rooted we'll have something like it.
If that all fails, there's always the Cradlepoint "battery powered" router: PHS300 Personal WiFi Hotspot - 3G/4G | Cradlepoint Technology
It is dependent of VZW. They have the right to strip the phone of that feature or they can leave it there, but you will have to pay a premium to use it. (Or, option 3, they leave it and don't charge anything, which is very unlikely)
Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be compatible with any Verizon Droid phones at the moment. I'd sure grab one it it was.
Not conserned with what vzw will do mostly with what this meant as far as the software to Hardware Differences was which was explained a few posts ago. Thanks
I don't know Sprint's plans very well, but I could have sworn they charge an additional $10 for that.
Sadly I can confirm this ... bought one on a super bargain sale at Buy.com, and checked it out with my Moto Droid - no go.
