As desirable as the iPad has proven itself to be, it is not exactly very efficient for all tasks. Even for simplest tasks, at times you may crave for the bigger screen estate that the conventional PC offers. However, on the other hand, the iPad can effectively serve as an extension of your work while on the move. You may even take it along with you to almost any social gathering without being viewed as a nerd.
One key factor necessary in using any of these devices well is having access to the internet on each device. Unfortunately, while this is the best option, it is also the most expensive. For me, i use Globacom‘s N5000 ($32) 3GB monthly data plan on my 3G iPad and Starcomms’ USB modem N7000 ($45) data plan on my PC. This can be expensive. To save cost, i tried the option of dispensing with my iPad data plan subscription, using my PC data plan via WIFI instead. This option was not convenient as i would not have access to the intenet on my iPad while on the move. I was stuck with my multiple data plan subscriptions until i came across MYWI.
With a price tag of $19.99 (N3,200), MyWi 4.0 is an app available to jailbreak iPads (and iphones) only and is available at the Cydia app store. Developed by Intelliborn, it allows you to share the internet access on your iPad with other devices via bluetooth,USB or as a WIFI hotspot for up to 4 devices. The app is surprising easy to set up, works flawlessly and very energy efficient. Many view this app as the ultimate reason to jailbreak your iPad, though i personally think Phoneitipad should take that glory.
A summary of the features of this app is listed below;
– Create WiFi Hotspot to connect mutiple laptops or mobile devices to share your iPhone’s internet connection
– 40 bit and 104 bit WEP Security to prevent others from accessing your WiFi HotSpot
– Ability to enable USB and Bluetooth Tethering on your iPhone as well
– Broadcasts the Network Name (SSID) – no need to fuss with creating an adhoc network on your laptop
– Uses less battery and relatively faster due to native routing
– Shows up and down bandwidth usage
I find this internet sharing option very cost effective and convenient as i only have to subscribe to my mobile plan and i can easily share the data plan with any device i choose to. However, one may have to contend with the rather slow, more common Edge (2.5G) speed that is available in Nigeria.
