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Know of any truely unlimited plans?

I've got one of the 'Unlimited data' plans from ATT, but it is only unlimited by using default applications that came with the ATT rom.
Further, it does not cover unlimited for streaming video (unless using ATT's apps) nor streaming radio (unless using their subscription based XM radio)
I've a friend who recieved a $152,000 bill for streaming internet radio and and youtube video downloads.
I'm curious about finding a package, or cell carrier who can offer me FOR REAL unlimited internet. No restrictions, no surprise $152K phone bills.
Any ideas?
The whole purpose of me purchasing this phone was for a windows environment with internet access on the go. I picked Windows mobile so I could obtain general internet access for a wide variety of applications and solutions, video, gps position publishing, shoutcast radio stations. Those are liable to get me a huge phone bill from ATT, so I need to find other options.

it being an international forum you would prov benefit from stating your country
being that isp plans and the likes change from country to country
that you give prices in $ makes one believe that you are in american or aussi
but people who want to reply would benefit with knowing for sure...........

Good idea.
United States, I'm using ATT wireless currently.
The plan I have is advertised as "MEdia Max 200 Bundle" for $19.95 a month. They offer an UNLIMITED MEDIA max plan, for $39 a month, but that only changes the plan to include UNLIMITED TEXTING.
Here's the "features" of the MEDIA MAX 200 bundle.
UNLIMITED Cellular Video
Cellular Video brings you video clips of your favorite TV shows, music videos, movie trailers, comedians and sports highlights. Play high-quality news, sports, weather, and entertainment video clips on demand on your 3G phone. Plus, you can add exclusive video programming from HBO MobileSM and HBO Family MobileSM.
UNLIMITED MEdia Net
With MEdia Net, you can browse the mobile web, check your Email, get your sports scores, movie times, weather and news right on your mobile phone. Plus, you can access the latest ringtones, games, graphics and AT&T Mobile Music.
200 Messages (5¢/additional messages)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Problems with the plan
My plan PROHIBITS the following for ANY network plan.
* TELEMETRY APPLICATIONS
(I use my phone to publish my GPS location on a map for company uses.),
* AUTOMATED FUNCTIONS OR ANY OTHER MACHINE-TO-MACHINE APPLICATIONS The above mentioned GPS software I use is an automated machine to machine application, obviously.;
* WITH SERVER DEVICES OR WITH HOST COMPUTER APPLICATIONS(The server that collects my GPS location and maps it is obviously a SERVER DEVICE.)
* FOR VOICE OVER IPI need to use Skype in my job, hence why I purchased the phone, so I can use Skype mobile; (IV)
* UNLIMITED PLANS CANNOT BE USED FOR UPLOADING, DOWNLOADING OR STREAMING OF VIDEO CONTENT (E.G. MOVIES, TV), MUSIC OR GAMES.
(I can't use this device for work, and nor for pleasure it seems. Shoutcast and YouTube are STREAMING VIDEO OR AUDIO CONTENT.There goes shoutcast, or any streaming music or video if is not one of ATT's subscription based services.)
A coworker got the same plan as me for work uses. He has been nailed, and is in dispute with ATT with it. I want to avoid the trouble, vote with my money, unlock my phone and get a carrier that won't screw me.
Outside of ATT's in-phone subscription based services, and internet browser -- everything else has been made illegal per my 'UNLIMITED' plan, and is subject to charges $0.01 per kilobyte overage. The phone rocks, Windows mobile rocks, the carrier does not.

Problem is that the Tilt (I'm assuming you're using the Tilt -- from your threads on the AT&T forums) is supposed to use one of the PDA data plans -- NOT the MedaNet/MediaMAX plans. Those plans are for mobile phones -- NOT PDA's.
There's a BIG difference in how they both handle the data packets.

newbie2 said:
Problem is that the Tilt (I'm assuming you're using the Tilt -- from your threads on the AT&T forums) is supposed to use one of the PDA data plans -- NOT the MedaNet/MediaMAX plans. Those plans are for mobile phones -- NOT PDA's.
There's a BIG difference in how they both handle the data packets.
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Click to collapse
Sorry to be so ignorant. New to the cellular world. I only got a phone with the requirements of my workplace, though I love it now!
Indeed it is the Tilt.
Seems ATT Wireless won't let me get to my account page due to 'temporary problems', I'm unsure if a PDA plan is available to me -- but are you saying a PDA plan is available for the Tilt? Does it have restrictions like I mentioned previously about MediaNet?
The sales people did hook me up with MediaNET, probably due to price. If I can get hooked in to a PDA plan with no ironfist restrictions, it could really save me potential problems with ATT.

Most "unlimited Plans" in the uk have a fair usage policy
so unlimited Date = 3GB per month
unlimited sms = 3000
and same with Minutes 3000 per month

Go sprint and buy a Mogul. I there is no limit on your data period. I use it as a modem as well even though I am not supposed to. Its funny considering its the exact same connection either way. Sprint is still the cheapest and still has the best data plans.

Tethering to launch as a service on mytouch 4g release date

tethering and Wi-Fi Sharing Add-On Feature Launches November 3
Overview
On November 3, T-Mobile will launch a tethering and Wi-Fi sharing add-on feature. This feature will allow customers to use their phone as a modem, enabling them to connect a computer or Wi-Fi capable device to the Web using our 3G or HSPA+ network.
By adding this add-on feature, which will cost $14.99/month, customers will gain access to the Web when they are on the go and wherever T-Mobile has coverage. Although most customers will use their laptop to access our network through their device, they will also be able to connect using any Wi-Fi capable device, like gaming devices, non-T-Mobile tablets like the iPad, and music players. Customers can make the phone-as-modem connection using a USB cable, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi sharing.
Requirements
Customers must have a 3G or HSPA+ compatible device to utilize the Tethering/Wi-Fi sharing feature.
Customers must have an Unlimited Web feature with an MRC of $19.95 or higher.
Customers must add the $14.99 Tethering/Wi-Fi add-on feature.
This is a separate add-on feature and in addition to the Unlimited Web feature.
Available for postpaid and FlexPay customers. Note: FlexPay customers will need to change their Unlimited Web feature in order for the new tethering add-on feature to work.
Right fitting
Tethering/Wi-Fi sharing will be ideal for customers who:
Need occasional access to the Web using a PC or other device.
Want a connection to the Web on-the-go, wherever T-Mobile has coverage.
Don’t see the need or want the expense of a complete mobile broadband experience, like T-Mobile’s webConnect. Note: customers who intend to use their laptops to access the Web frequently, or use a high amount of data, should consider a webConnect plan.
Additional Details
Customers who purchase a T-Mobile mobile broadband product like the upcoming Galaxy Tab should activate with a webConnect plan to ensure the best experience.
The set-up process will be determined by the type of device customers own and will be different for every manufacturer.
The data accumulated while tethering will count towards customers’ 5GB data speed reduction threshold limit.
Because T-Mobile Terms & Conditions have not permitted tethering in the past, those customers who have configured their device for tethering will receive a message on their handset advising them they will need to add the new add-on feature to continue using their device as a modem.
Action
Be aware dealers can begin selling the Tetherng/Wi-Fi add-on feature beginning November 3.
Review the Grab & Go for additional information.
Beginning November 3, refer to policy pages: T-MobileNews > In-Store Polices and Procedures
source: http://www.mobilecrunch.com/2010/10/26/t-mobile-to-charge-14-99-tethering-fee-come-nov-3rd/

I have received the same communication and am currently using it with no additional cost. Granted I am using it prior to the launch date so that may have something to do with it.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App

Ditto - using Nexus One with custom ROM on current unlimited plan. Will be watching to see if somehow they start blocking this.

[Q] Has anyone tried Simple mobile?

Has anyone tried Simple mobile? They have a $60 unlimited everything 4g plan. I hear they piggy back off the T-mobile towers and use the TMO 3G/4g network
So wouldnt coverage, signal, and service quality be just as good as if you were on T-Mobile?
If anyone has used them is their unlimited data truly unlimited or do you get throttled?
Edit: I just called Simple's CS department. They told me it was unlimited data. I asked if it was like T-Mobile's unlimited data where it gets throttled after 5gb and he said no, that it is really unlimited. I really want more confirmation about that before I switch. I mean REAL unlimited data, unlimited calling and texting for 60 bucks flat? And all of TMO's phones are compatible with it?? hmm cant beat that.. I emailed them as well to find out. I'll post when they reply

I have a friend who uses them, the only complaint he really haves is you don't get the T-Mobile Wi-Fi calling.
If you want to you can ask him some questions, he has been using it for a while now. www.twitter.com/neillund

MLIGN said:
I have a friend who uses them, the only complaint he really haves is you don't get the T-Mobile Wi-Fi calling.
If you want to you can ask him some questions, he has been using it for a while now. www.twitter.com/neillund
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Click to collapse
I know Neil Spoke to him, he said it works just as good as TMO except like what you said, no wifi calling.
I called them again and asked another agent. He said it is capped after a certain amount. I asked what that amount was and he couldnt tell me. Not very knowledgeable if you ask me He insturcted me to read the terms and conditions and gave me the section numbers (which were wrong) I fount this in their terms and conditions under data:
25. Additional Terms for Data Plans and Features
The following terms apply to your data plan or feature ("Data Plan"). To the extent any term in your Data Plan expressly conflicts with the general Terms and Conditions, which also apply to your service, the term in your Data Plan will govern. Please read your Data Plan carefully.
1. Permissible and Prohibited Data Uses
Your Data Plan is intended for Web browsing, messaging, and similar activities on your device and not on any other equipment. Unless explicitly permitted by your Data Plan, other uses, including for example, tethering your device to a personal computer or other hardware, are not permitted.
Examples of prohibited uses include but are not limited to: (a) server devices or host computer applications, including continuous Web camera posts or broadcasts, automatic data feeds, automated machine-to-machine connections or peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing applications that are broadcast to multiple servers or recipients, "bots" or similar routines that could disrupt net user groups or email use by others or other applications that denigrate network capacity or functionality; (b) as a substitute or backup for private lines or dedicated data connections; (c) any activity that adversely affects the ability of other users or systems to use either Simple Mobile's services or the network-based resources of others, including the generation or dissemination of viruses, malware or "denial of service" attacks; (d) accessing, or attempting to access without authority, the information, accounts or devices of others, or to penetrate, or attempt to penetrate, Simple Mobile's or another entity's network or systems; or (e), running software or other devices that maintain continuously active Internet connections when a computer's connection would otherwise be idle, or "keep alive" functions. For example, you cannot use a Data Plan for Web broadcasting, or for the operation of servers, telemetry devices and/or supervisory control and data or (f) engaging in atypical web usage behavior.
2. Protective Measures
To provide a good experience for the majority of our customers and minimize capacity issues and degradation in network performance we may take measures including temporarily reducing data throughput for a subset of customers who use a disproportionate amount of bandwidth. Additionally, in the event that a customer is in violation of the Permissible and Prohibited Data Uses listed above, we may reduce your data speed for the remainder of that billing cycle or terminate data service without notice or refund. We may also suspend, terminate, or restrict your data session, Plan, or service if you use your Data Plan in a manner that interferes with other customers' service, our ability to allocate network capacity among customers, or that otherwise may degrade service quality for other customers.
3. Downloadable Content and Applications
You can purchase Content and Applications (e.g., downloadable or networked applications, wallpapers, ringtones, games, and productivity tools) ("Content & Apps") for and with your compatible device. Some Apps that you can purchase with your device are not sold by Simple Mobile; for these Apps, you can identify the third party seller at the point of purchase. For these third party purchases Simple Mobile is not responsible for the App, including download, installation, use, transmission failure, interruption, or delay, or any content or website you may be able to access through the App. Any support questions for these Apps should be directed to the third party seller identified at the point of purchase. When you use, download or install an App sold by a third party seller, you may be subject to license terms between you and the third party seller and App developer. When you use, download, or install Content or Apps that you purchase from Simple Mobile, the Content or App is licensed to you by Simple Mobile and may be subject to additional license terms between you and the creator/owner of the Content or App. Whether purchased from Simple Mobile or a third party seller, any Content or App you purchase is licensed for personal, lawful, non-commercial use on your device only. You may not transfer, copy, or reverse engineer any Content or App, or alter, disable or circumvent any digital rights management security features embedded in the Content or App.
Simple Mobile is not responsible for any third party content or website you may be able to access using your device. You may encounter advertisements from other entities ("Third Party Ads") while you are browsing the Internet, or using an application on your device. Simple Mobile is not responsible for any Third Party Ads, or for any website or content that you may access by clicking on or following a link contained in a Third Party Ad.
Simple Mobile may retain, use, and share information collected when you download, use, or install some Content or Apps, may update your Content or App remotely, or may disable or remove any Content or App at any time. Refer to Simple Mobile's Privacy Policy as well as the Content or App creator/owner's privacy policy for information regarding the use of information collected when you download, install, or use any Content or App. We are not responsible for any transmission failure, interruption, or delay related to Content & Apps, or any content or website you may be able to access through the Content or App.

Over in the Vibrant forums, it was posted that it is 1GB. Not a throttle, but a cut off.... check that forum on XDA

rorycs said:
Over in the Vibrant forums, it was posted that it is 1GB. Not a throttle, but a cut off.... check that forum on XDA
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Click to collapse
Thanks, I just called their corp office. They told me the data is only meant to be used for browsing, downloading applications, messaging and email. That any heavy streaming, downloading or tethering or excessive use goes against their terms. They said they will either slow it down if it gets flagged for excessive use or turn it off completely. I asked ok, well how much data before it get's flagged. He said there is no number. They base it off the average use by customers. Pretty crappy if you ask me. So if you stream anything like you tube or anything at anytime you risk having your service slowed or turned off..

I've been using SM for 8 months. These are the services I use with my data plan:
Gtalk (moderate)
Dropbox (heavy)
Youtube (moderate)
Rom and application downloading (heavy)
Google Maps w/GPS (heavy)
Browsing (heavy)
Various turn-based game (moderate)
Picasa and Facebook photo uploading (heavy)
I have never experienced a throttle or termination of data services. I highly recommend them. I have no commercial interest or relationship with Simple Mobile or with anyone that does.

_atlien_ said:
I've been using SM for 8 months. These are the services I use with my data plan:
Gtalk (moderate)
Dropbox (heavy)
Youtube (moderate)
Rom and application downloading (heavy)
Google Maps w/GPS (heavy)
Browsing (heavy)
Various turn-based game (moderate)
Picasa and Facebook photo uploading (heavy)
I have never experienced a throttle or termination of data services. I highly recommend them. I have no commercial interest or relationship with Simple Mobile or with anyone that does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How much data would you estimate you use a month? I read too that some people report being throttled after 1gb, some have said they have gotten it after 2gb

Anyone tried using a SIM from a Straight Talk phone? Their $45/mo unlimited plan seems like the best deal around, at least on paper.

Simpel moblie lies and they are fake

Hi every one I have the sk4g but with simpel mobile any ways when you think of unlimited you think texts web talk well I get this text the other day and they siad I w2as at risk to have my date turn off because I did not fallow ther trems and condishons sorry if miss spell but unlimited should be on unlimeited no hind lies well I would like thos who are with simple mobile to protest agines them wright them tell them how its fake advertisemet
Sent from my SGH-T839 using xda premium

Yeah that's messed up dude, were you using the tmobile tether app or something? I wonder why they would say that...

No I was useing phone my pc and utorrent but still it lies how a phone company can be so fake
Sent from my SGH-T839 using xda premium

No wonder they sent you a message, you were tethering to your PC using utorrent and other PC stuff. If you abuse the system, they're gonna end you.
Taken from the Terms and Conditions page.
15. Misuse of Service or Device. You agree not to misuse the Service or Device, including but not limited to: (a) reselling or rebilling our Service; (b) using the Service or Device to engage in unlawful activity, or in conduct that adversely affects our customers, employees, business, or any other person(s), or that interferes with our operations, network, reputation, or ability to provide quality service, including but not limited to the generation or dissemination of viruses, malware or "denial of service" attacks; (c) using the Service as a substitute or backup for private lines or dedicated data connections; (d) tampering with or modifying your Simple Mobile Device; (e) "spamming" or engaging in other abusive or unsolicited communications, or any other mass, automated voice or data communication for commercial or marketing purposes; (f) reselling Simple Mobile Devices for profit, or tampering with, reprogramming or altering Simple Mobile Devices for the purpose of reselling the Simple Mobile Device; (g) using the Service in connection with server devices or host computer applications, including continuous Web camera posts or broadcasts, automatic data feeds, automated machine-to-machine connections or peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing applications that are broadcast to multiple servers or recipients, "bots" or similar routines that could disrupt net user groups or email use by others or other applications that denigrate network capacity or functionality; (h) accessing, or attempting to access without authority, the information, accounts or devices of others, or to penetrate, or attempt to penetrate, Simple Mobile's or another entity's network or systems; (i) running software or other devices that maintain continuously active Internet connections when a computer's connection would otherwise be idle, or "keep alive" functions (e.g. using a Data Plan for Web broadcasting, operating servers, telemetry devices and/or supervisory control and data acquisition devices); or (j) assisting or facilitating anyone else in any of the above activities. Unless authorized by Simple Mobile, you agree that you won't install, deploy, or use any regeneration equipment or similar mechanism (for example, a repeater) to originate, amplify, enhance, retransmit or regenerate a transmitted RF signal. You agree that a violation of this section harms Simple Mobile, which cannot be fully redressed by money damages, and that Simple Mobile shall be entitled to immediate injunctive relief in addition to all other remedies available.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't be reckless with tethering, use it in moderation.

Yea simple mobile doesn't allow tethering, it is in the TOA and on the website's QnA
burrr from my glacier

I'm on Wind up in Canada. I get unlimited calling, unlimited long distance, unlimited texting worldwide, unlimited data, and tethering to my hearts content. All for $45 tax in. Now that's what unlimited should mean!

Jax184 said:
I'm on Wind up in Canada. I get unlimited calling, unlimited long distance, unlimited texting worldwide, unlimited data, and tethering to my hearts content. All for $45 tax in. Now that's what unlimited should mean!
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Click to collapse
Agreed. I wouldn't mind paying an extra $15 bucks for that in the states. Right now I'm on the unlimited text and web (first 5gb is 4G speed) and 100 minutes plan for $30.

I dont have that problem because I don't tether. They made it nice and sparkling clear to not tether... I think its a fair bargain for the price I pay for service to be honest. Try talking with them about paying extra for tethering or go to a different carrier.
Sent from my SGH-T839 using XDA App

How did anyone understand enough of that garbage to respond?

jkusmc said:
How did anyone understand enough of that garbage to respond?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I must have been drunk or something... no I remember now... I was on the ****ter at work and the fumes must have gotten to me. I got drunk when. I got home.
Sent from my SGH-T839 using XDA App

[Q] Denied Tethering, Privacy, and the Law . . .

READ THE UPDATE AT THE BOTTOM
IS T-MOBILE IN VIOLATION CITIZEN'S PRIVACY AND POSSIBLY THE LAW​
Recently it has come to attention that T-mobile is blocking tethering based on the type of browser that you use.
HOW THE OLD HACK WORKED​
T-Mobile tethering can usually be subverted with a "rooted" phone by freezing or uninstalling the Tethering Manager app that usually prevents tethering unless you pay for it. Basically, the On/Off switch was in the users handset. Many users were using this trick and gaining tethering without paying for it until recently.
WHAT CHANGED ? ? ? ​
Apparently, T-Mobile decided to fix this by intelligently eavesdropping on all web communications of its customers looking for the field of data in your request which identifies the type of browser that you use.
Then based on your web browser (if you use a browser identified as one that does not generally run on a mobile device) they deny access by redirecting you to their page where the advertise their additional tethering service.
PRETTY SOLID EVIDENCE​
So the question is how this can be proven. Simple grab one of those "rooted" phones that used to work, and tether them to one another them using wireless. Since the the phones are both is using a mobile browser, (the same browser) then T-Mobile wont be able to tell the difference so you can tether all you want. You are now using one phones internet connection through the other.
Now tether to a P.C. using wireless and use Chrome . . . if it works it will be for only a little while before you are denied service and redirected to T-Mobiles page advertising tethering services.
THE SIGNIFICANT QUESTIONS AT HAND​
So now that we know that T-Mobile is monitoring our web communications what are the social and ethical implications. Their basically saying since your using our service we will look at what your doing when ever we want.
Really?
-What else are you looking at and logging T-Mobile?
-What does the law say about this?
-In the U.S. what does the F.C.C. have to say about this?
-Is this a moral practice?
-How do customers feel about being spied on by their trusted service provider?
-Why would we pay to unblock something that we have already purchased?
WHAT HAS T-MOBILE ACHIEVED BY DOING THIS​
Its not like T-Mobile will actually achieve anything for long (A few days at most before a wide spread workaround). People smart enough to root their phones are also smart enough to get around this, as I will discuss this is not even an obstacle.
T-MOBILES GREAT UNSPOKEN ANNOUNCEMENT​
All that T-Mobile achieved by doing this is tell the world a little more about how deeply they are watching what their beloved customers are doing at all times.
THE WORKAROUND​
Please bear with me if you are technically inclined, I am trying to make this simple so it could be understood by all.
A simple app that intercept the request of the tethered device and intelligently scans and strips the field of data identifying the requesting browser as anything other that the stock authorized android browser then replaces this data to make it appear that is was the authorized stock mobile browser making the request.
The app would then make the appropriate changes to the data received for the request and make the appropriate changes for the tethered browser to understand and route if over to that browser.
That's it, undetectable tether again ! ! !
I'm looking forward to hearing your answers.
Thanks
* * * * * * * U P D A T E * * * * * * *
I have posted some easy workarounds from my posts below for easy access.
This is not meant for, or in any way advocating violating your TOS. This is to get third party browsers, Browsers running in Virtual Machienes on your phone . . . to work. However I cannot tell you what to do; so use your judgment. I am not responsible for any misuse of this information.
​
Method 1 Changing the User Agent String of your browser:
This plugin allows you to change the UAString on Chrome:
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/djflhoibgkdhkhhcedjiklpkjnoahfmg <-Updated the dead link
A second option (In case you have issues with FireFox) would be:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/fir...gent-switcher/
And apparently, Opera has a Built in UAString changer:
http://www.davidtan.org/how-to-chang...-agent-string/
If you use Internet Exploiter (excuse me) Explorer for some unknown reason:
http://www.enhanceie.com/ietoys/uapick.asp
Please note:
If you change your UAString to an Android Browser UAstring, then you will usually only get the Mobile versions of the web pages you view. For most people changing the UAString to the standard FireFox UAString seems to work fine.
Method 2 Using a VPN:
Many programs are available which provide VPN (Virtual Private Network) access to your home network. Using these tools an encrypted connection between your phone and home network will be established. As a result T-Mobiles eavesdropping techniques will not be able to decipher the data between you and your home network. Once a connection has been established with your home network, then your Internet requests can be relayed through your home Internet connection . . . If you don not have a home Internet connection, then there are many services available that provide an Internet gateway for you to VPN into.
Some of the available options include:
Using your home PC or MAC as your own VPN server:
http://www.openvpn.net
Using a power efficient home router as a VPN server, using either the factory firmware, and if unsupported using a custom firmware:
The Linksys WRT-54G Router, an affordable classic:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=wrt+54g
A powerful custom firmware supporting many routers:
http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/index
*******List of Issues As Reported by Many Customers*******​​​
1. Many third party browsers and many browsers running in a virtualised operating system are being blocked and the innocent user is being accused of tethering,in some reported cases, even the ICS web browser.
2. T-mobile refuses to fix this by stating that the Web Browser is not supported (3rd party) when one of their main selling points is Multimedia and apps and a Working TCP / IP interface for applications and is seemingly deliberately casting blame on the third party app when in fact it is T-Mobile that is spoofing and redirecting the application due to overly paranoid, ineffective,abusive and despotic counter measure aimed at people who break TOS via tethering.
3. The privacy of the user is violated due to intelligent packet sniffing on their wireless internet communications. Furthermore, the scope of monitoring is unknown, and there are many privacy concerns such as why System Manager continues to run in the background even when the user opts out of Carrier IQ and how deep it is capable of monitoring.
4. Many people who signed contracts for data plans claim they never agreed to pay any extra fee for tethering and claim that they are no longer bound to T-Mobile's contract due to this violation.
5. People on prepay plans are now denied tethering when the allowance of tethering implied continued tethering service.
6. Some prepay customers claim they purchased a month of service, or perhaps more and were provided with tethering for only part of their service period before T-mobile stopped providing part of the service (tethering) that they had already sold without refunding the customers for the nonexistent service the had payed for.
7. It has been reported that when T-Mobile throttles users ,who have gone over their high speed bandwidth allowance, to 3G speeds customers are not throttled to the ITU spec 3G speed. Instead most people report being limited to an average of about 119kbps.
8. It is further reported that throttling seems to discriminate against users who purchase more high speed data allowance and have reached their limit. For instance, A customer who purchases 2GB of high speed data and has uses it all up may be capped to about 119kbps in contrast to a customer who purchased 5GB of data who may be capped to a much lower and nearly unusable speed. Many people have reported this sort of discriminatory throttling. So, it seems that the more you pay T-Mobile and buy services, then commit the horrible act of using the service that you have paid for, you are punished.
Of interest:​
da-pharoah has brought to our attention a free app that is supposed to bypass tethering restrictions with no need for root access, proving once more that T-Mobile's measures were frivolous, and ineffective. Their measures don't prevent people who want to tether from doing so; that has been proven over and over again. Their methods only hurt and shame their valued innocent customers who are accused of tethering.
The app is called Foxfi and its free
Thank you da-pharoah
This test shows that T-Mobile may be trying to punish people who purchase higher bandwidth and actually use it.​
The following screenshot is from a phone that is running a stock firmware and has deliberately, and legitimately used the full 5GB high speed allowance for the month.
​
As you can see on a throttled 5GB plan the connection seems to be, at best, about 60kbps. Please note that this is with a pretty good connection. Most people claim an average of about 119kbps on a throttled 2GB plan. Since this seems to be the case, this shows that T-Mobile is discriminating against their higher paying customers and is punishing them for using the full amount of bandwidth the purchased. It seems that the more you purchase and use the more you are punished.
It was reported by a customer care representative, that the throttling should bring a customer down to a speed, much less than 60kbps regardless of the type of plan, and that those experiencing higher speeds should feel "lucky."
The problem is that this 60k seems to only be acquired with an optimal signal level and while stationary. It is reported that most of the time the speed drops down so low and the latency becomes so high that almost all internet requests are timed out.
The aforementioned scenario would make the advertised unlimited internet access, in actuality, very limited, and the user of a throttled 5GB plan would then not be receiving the service that was advertised, or that they payed for. At that point the internet service is quite useless and nearly nonexistent, when in fact a working low speed internet service is advertised for those who have reached their high speed data cap.
UPDATE
This document is for information purposes only. I do not advocate violating your contract terms or any illegal activity. you assume full liability and responsibility for the use of this information.​
Many people have reported to me that their tethering no longer works even after killing the tethering manager.
Many have asked me to look into this, here are my findings:
It seems that T-Mobile has implemented a new hidden APN in their ROMs. When you activate tethering, your connected devices seem to be routed through a different APN than your phone uses which is where the block is, if you have not paid the tax.
The answer:
A. For users:
Create a new APN name called "Tethering" and copy the information from your T-Mobile APN to it. There is no need to activate this APN. Immediately after doing so you should regain your full connection. Tested on a SGH-T989 (T-Mobile SGS 2) and reported to work.
B. Mostly for ROM authors:
Edit the appropriate configuration files and change all APNs (usually "epc.pcweb.com") to "epc.tmobile.com" or any other working APN such as MVNO APNs ("simple" . . .)
All test reports submitted to me report this is working and that my theory was accurate.
from: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=33287279

Threads like this have a sad history of going absolutely nowhere. On a side note, you need to become more familiar with the subject (no, those questions in Networking+PM were not enough)
The technologically inept usually (always) cry about privacy issues when it comes to similar topics. While ISPs and cell carriers have a habit of not caring at all about your privacy, tethering detection does not require a breach of anything you would consider private. Websites you visit get the same information - it's what gets you redirected to a "mobile" website.
To put it in simple terms, when you don't pay for tethering, this happens: Cell carriers look at the type of your browser's data request (user agent, in the case of T-Mobile USA). If it's a desktop browser, you get forwarded to the upsell page or you get a text message about it.
Your app idea is actually unnecessary as it's already possible to spoof user agent strings - but it's done by modifying the browser itself. Capturing every packet sent, checking for UAstring and modifying it would be completely unrealistic.

luftrofl said:
Threads like this have a sad history of going absolutely nowhere. On a side note, you need to become more familiar with the subject (no, those questions in Networking+PM were not enough)
The technologically inept usually (always) cry about privacy issues when it comes to similar topics. While ISPs and cell carriers have a habit of not caring at all about your privacy, tethering detection does not require a breach of anything you would consider private. Websites you visit get the same information - it's what gets you redirected to a "mobile" website.
To put it in simple terms, when you don't pay for tethering, this happens: Cell carriers look at the type of your browser's data request (user agent, in the case of T-Mobile USA). If it's a desktop browser, you get forwarded to the upsell page or you get a text message about it.
Your app idea is actually unnecessary as it's already possible to spoof user agent strings - but it's done by modifying the browser itself. Capturing every packet sent, checking for UAstring and modifying it would be completely unrealistic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been a UNIX system administrator for over 15 years. During this time I have come across many diffident people and opinions.
I personally think that packet inspection in any form is a violation of the consumers rights.
Furthermore, I don't care to tether at all. The issue surfaced when my Firefox browser in Ubuntu running on my smart phone began falsely claiming that I was tethering.
Further, many people who use ICS are reporting being redirected to the same website and accused of tethering.
Running an app in the phone to change the user agent string is also very feasible. There are already apps that do that, but they don't support wireless connections, just USB. If a linksys router from the year 2000 can do it with its limited processing power, then a low power phone by todays standards has no problem.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

Your best bet would be to look at your TOS and read it closely. ISPs of all kinds reserve the right to monitor all data traffic on their net work. If tethering is not offered on the plan you have Legally you are in breach of your contract and can be sued. ATT does the same thing and this has been talked about to death.

zelendel said:
Your best bet would be to look at your TOS and read it closely. ISPs of all kinds reserve the right to monitor all data traffic on their net work. If tethering is not offered on the plan you have Legally you are in breach of your contract and can be sued. ATT does the same thing and this has been talked about to death.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. I agree, but the issue is that this does not really prevent people (root users) from tethering, instead it prevents third party Web browsers from properly resolving DNS. Full blown browsers in ICS and virtualized machines are mistaken as tethered systems.
T-mobile's excuse is there is something wrong with the third party app and that the third party app is not supported or their responsibility.
The reality is that T-mobile's responsibility is to provide an industry standard TCP/IP connection for our third party apps, and there is nothing wrong with the app, their system is spoofing the app due to paranoid programming.
They did not sell us Android phones with the google play market because they don't support it. Why do they advertise access to apps, but once they sell you the phone, if its not going their way they all the sudden don't support compatibility.
I could understand not sporting a third party app but they can't use this as an ecxcuse to not support their own platform and justify messing up compatibility with Android apps due to their paranoia of people bypassing their tethering manager.
Further, what are the laws regarding packet inspection?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

Easy Workarounds
Disclaimer
This is meant to help those with issues they may be having running third party browsers on their phones. This information is not meant for the subversion of tethering detection by your service provider, and or the violation of your terms of service.
As was pointed out the User Agent String (UAString can be easily changed on the browser of choice. Although, a plugin is needed on chrome.
Apparently most versions of FireFox and Opera work fine, perhaps the UAStrings are the same as on the mobile versions?
This plugin allows you to change the UAString on Chrome:
Download link: http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...XUjalz&usg=AFQjCNED4rpi3tE0I2o90jlPHLkCKbHjtA
A second option (In case you have issues with FireFox) would be:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/user-agent-switcher/
And apparently Opera has a Built in UAString changer:
http://www.davidtan.org/how-to-change-opera-user-agent-string/
If you use Internet Exploiter (excuse me) Explorer for some unknown reason:
http://www.enhanceie.com/ietoys/uapick.asp
Please note:
If you change your UAString to an Android Browser UAstring, then you will usually only get the Mobile versions of the web pages you view. For most people changing the UAString to the standard FireFox UAString seems to work fine.
I hope this help everyone out.

Another option to avoid thethering detection is using VPN. As long as your phone sends all data encrypted over the VPN, they won't be able to detect it.
Downside is, you need a VPN endpoint. This means you need to have a always-on device at home that can handle this OR you need to pay for a VPN account somewhere.

I was getting blocked untill i stopped using chrome.
No chrome = no block. Tmobile identifies the user agent string chrome uses.

Fludizz said:
Another option to avoid thethering detection is using VPN. As long as your phone sends all data encrypted over the VPN, they won't be able to detect it.
Downside is, you need a VPN endpoint. This means you need to have a always-on device at home that can handle this OR you need to pay for a VPN account somewhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is open source firmware for low power linksys routers that provides VPN functionality.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

I wonder where the lines between illegal wiretapping and packet inspection are drawn.
On another note, I had my dolphin browser on my phone redirected to their ads because of the string I was using (iPad). They're doing a pretty shabby job of intercepting traffic accurately.
Vpn> I'd probably consider taxing them via exploiting data usage until I get them to sever the contract too.
All this is an effort to keep customers from using what they pay for, "unlimited" data.
We should probably answer back with a more serious response as a group, namely a coordinated effort to use every last byte of data transfer we're paying for each month. Frame the argument in terms consumers all understand. How much data/money are you wasting/giving away to Tmobile every month? You paid for it, be sure to use it! Tmo will love that.
Sent from Scott LaRock's TR808

Agreed. I think if enough of us are verbal about their methods we might be able to get something resolved.
Any suggestions?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus

you don't need a plugin to change the user agent on desktop chrome, you can do it from developer tools. this is how to do it on mac:
view->developer->developer tools->little settings icon on the bottom-right of the window->override user agent

I understand that there many methods of changing the UserAgenyString, but the whole point is the poor consumer who has paid for service and is not tethering is getting screwed for using a third party browser which is by no means a violation of the service agreement. We need something simple. An app . . . Something that someone with limited knowledge can use to keep from being ripped off.
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
What is the 15 dollar tax for? Does T-mobile power your phones processor? If so why do you pay a power bill? Does T-mobile preform voodoo to enable the phone THAT YOU OWN to route packets? Nooooo ! ! !
Its like back in the old days when the phone company used to make you pay for the phones you use and fine you if you had additional or "unauthorized" handsets plugged in.
This move is flat out, FRIVOLOUS ! ! ! RIDICULOUS ! ! ! ASININE ! ! ! and TYRANIC ! ! !
We- as consumers must come up with methods to use our third party browsers . . . Without being accused of tethering and as a result blocked, blamed, and shamed by a company were paying for service.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

shnn2011 said:
I understand that there many methods of changing the UserAgenyString, but the whole point is the poor consumer who has paid for service and is not tethering is getting screwed for using a third party browser.
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
What is the 15 dollars for? Does T-mobile power your phones processor? If so why do you pay a power bill? Does T-mobile preform voodoo to enable your phone THAT YOU OWN route packets? Nooooo ! ! !
Its like back in the old days when phone companies used to make you pay for the phones you use and fine you if you had additional our "unauthorized" handsets.
This move is flat out, FRIVOLOUS ! ! ! RIDICULOUS ! ! ! ASININE ! ! ! and TYRANIC ! ! !
The whole point is to come up with a method to help consumers use their third party browsers . . . Without being accused of tethering and as a result blocked, blamed, and shamed.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The easiest thing would e for the browser developers to fix the issue. As long as it reports as a desktop client then they will see it as such and assume you are breaking your TOS. If the browsers reported it properly then it would not be an issue.
In the end what I have a feeling will happen is that data plans will increase in cost and have built in tethering. Even if you dont use tethering.

zelendel said:
The easiest thing would e for the browser developers to fix the issue. As long as it reports as a desktop client then they will see it as such and assume you are breaking your TOS. If the browsers reported it properly then it would not be an issue.
In the end what I have a feeling will happen is that data plans will increase in cost and have built in tethering. Even if you dont use tethering.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many new mobile browsers are fullblown browsers and for this reason there are complications. I am told that even the full blown ICS browser is being blocked.
The browsers are reporting their User Agent String properly. T-mobile is interpreting the User Agent Strings with ignorance.
Prices should go down as technology progresses. I think that eventually providers will drop the frivolous taxing of tethering.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
To true... ^^

S1mSyo said:
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
To true... ^^
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No they are worried that you will hook up a device and use the bandwith for a device that it was not intended for. I see posts like this all the time and no one bothers to read the TOS when they sign the contract. The TOS states that all data is for the device on the contract and no other with out a tethering plan.

zelendel said:
No they are worried that you will hook up a device and use the bandwith for a device that it was not intended for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is this worrisome? Seems to me they're more worried about the extra bucks they could be leeching from you by arbitrarily categorizing tethering data differently from other data.

thebobp said:
How is this worrisome? Seems to me they're more worried about the implications of such use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think about it for a min. Most people are on Limited data plans. Then they tether to say a laptop (cause they saw they could on sites like this.) The laptop eats their data away in the blink of an eye. When he bill comes in the people are pissed and call the company to complain. They spend hours on the phone yelling at someone and making threats for something that was their fault. Then just to shut them up a manager may remove the charges. All of this cost the company money. Not to mention puts the company employees in a tuff spot. Either keep the Cx happy and remove the charges with risk of losing their job, or deal with someone that is pissed off enough though they have no right to be.
I have been in just that position many times over the past few years. Now I tell everyone. If you want to tether then get a plan for it.

zelendel said:
The laptop eats their data away in the blink of an eye.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're either kidding or severely exaggerating (unless you're referring to one of those tiny, tiny plans, which are designed to try to make you go over and get charged overages anyway).
Computer browsers may use more data than mobile browsers, but not by that many orders of magnitude. The fact that some mobile browsers even identify themselves as computer browsers is testament to this.
If you're talking about people going haywire by tethering and downloading gigabytes, then 1) they kinda deserve it, but 2) [and much more importantly] they can do it on the phone anyway, as demonstrated by the guy who legitimately used 150GB in a month.