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WiFi
- Thread starter ichris2
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This remains up for debate. If you have the data plan, the iPhone should seemlessly switch from EGDE to Wifi when available. Whether Apple/AT&T will allow you to have an iPhone without a data package remains to be seen.
arn
Sounds like a good rumor. Friday is a good day for a press release of this type, and this is the last chance they will have. This way, in the event that people are slightly angry over the price it won't affect their stock.
Nobody knows for sure how this will be configured. It will either be set up to auto switch to available WiFi networks (if authorized) or you'll have to switch it manually. Knowing Apple, it should be automatic once configured for the WiFi network.
They have not yet once mentioned anything about encrypted wifi networks, AKA most wifi networks.
There can't be a SEAMLESS transition, nor will the iPhone simply "DO THE RIGHT THING". It's impossible.
Think about it. Whenever you come in range of a password protected network, you will be automatically prompted for a password... assuming it does what Steve said and "automatically detects" networks AND connects whenever possible. This could potentially be very annoying.
There can't be a SEAMLESS transition, nor will the iPhone simply "DO THE RIGHT THING". It's impossible.
Think about it. Whenever you come in range of a password protected network, you will be automatically prompted for a password... assuming it does what Steve said and "automatically detects" networks AND connects whenever possible. This could potentially be very annoying.
That's why I'm leaning towards it switching only with the networks you have configured use with. That would eliminate the problem, that's also assuming the WiFi radio is left on all the time, which I wouldn't do if there's a choice. Which there has to be a choice or it would seriously cut into battery life. It should work just like the laptops do, if your radio is on and you have configured to a network, you auto connect. Why would it work any differently???
I have been wondering about this too. Also, when you go to a lunch shop like Panera Bread that offers free wifi, you still have to open up an internet browser and check off that you agree to their terms before you can get internet access. I assume this is standard at pretty much every place where you can get free wi-fi. Maybe they have some way around this though?
If AT&T/Cingular does it like they do it now...they will require a data plan in order to even use the WIFI.
Here's my experience...
I bought the Cingular 8125 the week it came out (spent an arm and a leg too). I was so excited because it was the first phone they offered with WIFI. I was even more excited becuase I couldn't (at the time) afford a data plan - but I was mostly around hotspots. So I was going to still be able to surf the web WIFI without paying an extra $40/mo.
The manager in the store sold me on the phone.
Come to find out when I got the phone out of the box that the wifi would not work. I called tech support - and they told me I could not use FREE INTERNET without paying them $40/mo.
It is one thing to pay for data on their network...it is another to pay THEM to use MY internet at home.
Here's my experience...
I bought the Cingular 8125 the week it came out (spent an arm and a leg too). I was so excited because it was the first phone they offered with WIFI. I was even more excited becuase I couldn't (at the time) afford a data plan - but I was mostly around hotspots. So I was going to still be able to surf the web WIFI without paying an extra $40/mo.
The manager in the store sold me on the phone.
Come to find out when I got the phone out of the box that the wifi would not work. I called tech support - and they told me I could not use FREE INTERNET without paying them $40/mo.
It is one thing to pay for data on their network...it is another to pay THEM to use MY internet at home.
1. It's not a laptop
2. It was described differently. (as opposed to being compared to a laptop which would have needed no further explanation)
And you are...who?
Scroll up, I already quote Steve Jobs. You can refer to the Jan keynote for full citation.
My point is technically speculation until the 29th ( as is everything mind you ),
however I make a logical deduction.
1. I think we are all aware that the iPhone is not a laptop. I don't believe I need to go into detail on that.
2. Steve Jobs described a WiFi/Edge relationship that seamlessly and automatically switches based on availability. If you are currently using a Laptop computer with built in WiFi, then you are aware of what this entails. Steve's words, word for word, would not accurately describe a laptop wifi experience....hence my reasoning that it will not be exactly like a laptop.
have you ever used a "non-carrier provided" phone with wifi? it does work just like a laptop. My N80 works perfectly for free just like a laptop does. I hope this is how they designed the iPhone.
if SJ told us that this is a full version of Mac OS X, then we know for a FACT that this phone will do it.
plus if apple is so steadfast in their "just works" mantra, then i'm would have to bet my money that it will, well ya know...
plus if apple is so steadfast in their "just works" mantra, then i'm would have to bet my money that it will, well ya know...
I could swear there was an official article on this. That it will prompt you about available networks if you're offline, and auto-connect to those which you've approved.
So given that logic we'll be able to install apps on it just like OSX?
We'll be able to view Word.doc attachments in e-mail?
Don't count on it.
I am someone offering my humble opinion based on what I believe. I have read your posts and your quotes are not definitive, they are simply being put into context to form your opinion.
Apple is trying to make this as much of a 'customer-centric' device as they can, therefore I must believe that mean they will make it as easy to use as possible. Hence, my theory. I could be right, could be wrong. I don't really care either way. This forum is here for people to share opinions, rumors, and information. I've heard considerably more ridiculous claims than my WiFi theory, but I still like to know what other people are thinking. That's what keeps this interesting and entertaining.
Are people still debating whether or not data plans will be required??????? LOL I thought that has been put to rest A WHILE ago!
Not in this thread.