Verizon’s 4G LTE network is fast, faster than some people’s home internet connections, so we can imagine that there are more than a few people out there who want to tap into that fat pipe to deliver internet access to their laptop, iPad, and other WiFi enabled devices. One could buy an HTC Thunderbolt and turn it into a WiFi hotspot since that feature is baked into Android, but a more practical solution would be to purchase a dedicated mobile hotspot. The Samsung SCH-LC11, which was shown off at the Consumer Electronics Show in January of this year, is rumored to be launching this Thursday according to Engadget. No word on pricing or what type of monthly fees you’ll be forking over, but we’ll go out on a limb and assume it’s going to be a bit expensive as it’s bleeding edge technology and Verizon needs to recoup the money they spent on their brand spanking new network.
Back to the dedicated hotspot versus turning your mobile phone into a hotspot debate, which one makes more sense and why? You’ll need to subscribe to two data plans if you want to have both a smartphone and a hotspot, so that’s more money both up front and over the lifetime of your hardware. You’re also going to need to carry two devices with you at all times and make sure they’re both charged up, which can be difficult for the forgetful type who barely remember to charge their phone in the first place. If the hotspot dies then you always have the battery in your mobile phone, which is a plus, so … this isn’t an easy decision now is it? We say use your smartphone as a hotspot. The feature comes standard with Android, iOS, and there’s a rumor that it’s also coming to the next version of RIM’s BlackBerry OS.