US carriers have started blocking an app that allows Android smartphone users free wireless tethering for other Web-ready devices.
The application, “Wireless Tether for Root Users,” is still available on the Android Market. But if you have a phone that’s on the Verizon, AT&T or T-Mobile networks, you won’t be able to download or install it.
Try and access the app from the Android Market, and when prompted to choose which device on which to install it, you’ll only be able to select Sprint-carried devices or WiFi only products.
Wired.com attempted to install the application on a number of devices, and was only able to do so on a Sprint-carried Evo 4G and Galaxy Tab, as well as WiFi-only products. Our Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T devices were unable to receive the app for installation.
A spokesperson from Verizon confirmed the application is not available to Verizon Wireless customers. AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The problem for the carriers is that there's several ways around the block, and several ways to ding carriers for tethered wi-fi. AT&T has had some experience in this department dealing with jailbroken iPhones, but considering the app makes that $30 monthly tethering charge obsolete, I can see why the carriers are trying to do everything they can to stop this.
It's going to be a losing battle unless the carriers drop Android altogether, and that's not going to happen with Google's 800-pound gorilla in the room.
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