In iOS 13, your personal hotspot is always on. This keeps the paired device connected to the internet. You can also easily give family members access to your personal hotspot from now on. That is how it works.
Personal hotspot in iOS 13
For years now, Apple users have been able to share their Internet connection with other devices by creating a personal hotspot. In iOS 13 and iPadOS, this connection always remains active, even when the sending iPhone is not being used.
This can be useful to keep the device using the hotspot connected to the internet. That way WhatsApps, messages and e-mails just keep flowing in. You don’t have to go into the settings for this, because the personal hotspot remains on by default in iOS 13.
Keep in mind that sharing an internet connection costs a lot of energy. For example, when a laptop uses your personal hotspot, it is wise to connect your iPhone or iPad to the charger.
Also read: This is when you can download iOS 13, iPadOS and other updates
Personal Hotspot and Family Sharing
In addition, starting from iOS 13 and iPadOS, it is possible to turn on Family Sharing for personal hotspots. This way, family members can use your internet connection, without you having to give permission first. That is how it works:
- Go to the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad;
- Tap on ‘Personal Hotspot’;
- Choose “Family Sharing” and slide the switch so that the box turns green;
- Select the family member and determine whether they will automatically access your hotspot or require prior permission.
For example, you can give your partner automatic permission, but not your child (ren). Of course, Family Sharing must be turned on for this option to work. Are you stuck? Then read our detailed article about creating a personal hotspot.
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