T-Mobile G2 to Feature Wi-Fi Calling but No Tethering
Even though T-Mobile denied that it would enable UMA calling on their Android phones, a whole slew of new evidence is suggesting quite the contrary. First we saw Kineto Wireless demonstrate their UMA-powered Smart Wi-Fi app on a poorly concealed Samsung Vibrant, then we spied a leaked document claiming the feature would be available on the LG Optimus when it touches down on the carrier, and now a similar document is suggesting the feature will be on a few more “select Android devices.” One of those devices will be none other than the upcoming T-Mobile G2.
There are some downsides to the UMA service, as it won’t simply hand off calls between WiFi and your cellular network. Instead if you leave WiFi coverage you will drop your call. The service also won’t be readily available on all Android phones on TMo.
Speaking of things that won’t be available on TMo, the company has come out saying tethering will not be available for the G2. Their reasoning has more to do with the fact that they don’t have the necessary service plans set up rather than simple ignorance to a feature that many crave.
“T-Mobile does not currently support handset tethering or offer a tethering rate plan. Though tethering and Wi-Fi sharing will not be initially supported on the T-Mobile G2, we know that consumers are interested in these features and we are working to develop a solution to support them in the future.”
Maybe it’s wishful thinking, but that statement leaves open a lot of room for hope that tethering will make its way to the G2 (or at least some other TMo Android) eventually. The phone is set to drop October 6th.