Does Your Tablet Have A Data Plan?

An article by ewoodesign    Comments Off

The new craze in the tech world is tablets. I was originally turned off by items like the iPad, because they were lacking in the hardware department. Which, honestly was a smart move on Apple’s part. The iPad is not really marketed toward a hardcore gamer demographic. The average user is fine with the hardware it comes with. What’s more is there’s plenty other great tablets that do offer that kind of power!

If you’re a new tablet user have you picked up a mobile data plan for your ipad or similar device? You can always use wifi, but it’s not always available depending on your location. It can be very convenient to use your own data connection if you need to do important office tasks or even make calls using your tablet.

There are some plans that allow you to do a pre-paid type of deal which is nice. This is a good solution if you don’t use enough data to warrant an additional monthly charge. You can use wifi on your iPad whenever available and default to your data plan when you really need to.

The monthly plans can be a little pricey, but I’m sure as the technology becomes more popular they will come down. Many people also have a tethering plan with their cellphone provider. This allows you to turn your cell phone into a mobile hot spot. I’m thinking of switching phone carriers to another that offers free tethering. Since my current provider requires and additional charge and a data cap!

Many people are use to having unlimited data from their home so if you go the data package route be aware of your limitations. You could be charged big overages if you go over your plan. Check and see if your plan will warn you if you’re going to go over, and what those charges will be. Be mindful of your downloads and your web browsing. You can blow through data incredibly fast!

This is especially true if you plan to play online games or watch streaming video. I know several people who can’t use netflix on their phones due to the data cap. I have an unlimited plan so it doesn’t effect me on my mobile. If you want an idea of how much data you may use a program like net meter to see how much you use on your desktop or laptop when at home. You can also check your mobile usage, but chances are you use much more on your computer.