> A lot of the mobile data plans actually only apply to direct usage from your phone. Not when using it as an AP (tethering).
Not to take away from the larger point about US data plans, which is generally true.
But the fundamental market philosophy of the US is to exploit individuals' laziness. If you're unwilling to do the basic modern necessity of taking control of your phone, then you perfectly fit the profile to be their victim. If you're just walking into a carrier store/kiosk and asking them what they overtly market, you basically have "$$$" written on your forehead.
Practically - if I needed an LTE connection, I'd setup a fixed antenna aimed at a Sprint tower on a Clearwire-settlement plan, look into buying a grandfathered Mobley device on eBay, or accept a slightly lower speed for a consumer "unlimited data" plan (eg $55/mo for 3Mbps at Cricket).
I'm really glad you made this comment because you're actually totally right. I am a very competent developer. I should just figure out how to get tethering setup outside their mobile hotspot limits so it looks like phone data.
Not to take away from the larger point about US data plans, which is generally true.
But the fundamental market philosophy of the US is to exploit individuals' laziness. If you're unwilling to do the basic modern necessity of taking control of your phone, then you perfectly fit the profile to be their victim. If you're just walking into a carrier store/kiosk and asking them what they overtly market, you basically have "$$$" written on your forehead.
Practically - if I needed an LTE connection, I'd setup a fixed antenna aimed at a Sprint tower on a Clearwire-settlement plan, look into buying a grandfathered Mobley device on eBay, or accept a slightly lower speed for a consumer "unlimited data" plan (eg $55/mo for 3Mbps at Cricket).