Google has once again released a new set of features for Android users, and this one could change how we use our devices on the go. One of the big highlight of this feature drop is the introduction of Instant Hotspot, a feature that aims to streamline the connection between your Android devices.
Imagine you're out and about with your Android tablet or Chromebook, and you need an internet connection. Normally, you'd have to fumble around with your phone, activate the hotspot, find it on your other device, and then enter the password. Not exactly a smooth process, especially when you're in a hurry. This is where Instant Hotspot steps in. It lets you connect your tablet or Chromebook to your phone's hotspot with just a single tap, eliminating the need for passwords and tedious setup.
This kind of seamless device interaction is reminiscent of Apple's Continuity features, which have long been praised for their ease of use. It's great to see Android borrowing a page from Apple's playbook, making the user experience smoother and more intuitive.
However, as Mishaal Rahman reported for Android Authority, there's one notable exception to this new feature: Samsung devices. For reasons unknown, Instant Hotspot won't be available on any Samsung phones or tablets. This is a bit of a bummer for Samsung users, especially those who own both Samsung phones and tablets. While Samsung devices already offer their own Auto Hotspot feature for seamless connectivity within their ecosystem, this new feature would have extended that convenience to other Android devices as well.
Image credit: Google via Mishaal Rahman/Android Authority
It's not entirely clear why Samsung devices are excluded from this feature, but it could be a strategic decision to encourage users to stay within the Samsung ecosystem. Regardless, Samsung users will still be able to utilize Instant Tethering with their Chromebooks and Link to Windows with their PCs.
For everyone else with an Android phone running Android 11 or newer, the Instant Hotspot feature is a welcome addition. It's a small change, but it can make a big difference in how we use our devices on the go. This feature is part of Google's ongoing effort to improve the Android ecosystem, and it's definitely a step in the right direction.
Create a free account and join our vibrant community
Register to enjoy the full PhoneArena experience. Here’s what you get with your PhoneArena account:
Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and official member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
Recommended Stories
Loading Comments...
COMMENT
All comments need to comply with our
Community Guidelines
Phonearena comments rules
A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it
is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some
random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.
Things that are NOT allowed:
Off-topic talk - you must stick to the subject of discussion
Offensive, hate speech - if you want to say something, say it politely
Spam/Advertisements - these posts are deleted
Multiple accounts - one person can have only one account
Impersonations and offensive nicknames - these accounts get banned
Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a
post should be moderated - please, report it.
Have a question about the rules or why you have been moderated/limited/banned? Please,
contact us.
Things that are NOT allowed: