Old Post - Using Cell Service for On-the-Go Wi-Fi: A Cautionary Tale and What to Watch Out For

Originally posted September 20th

10/3/20244 min read

Using Cell Service for On-the-Go Wi-Fi: A Cautionary Tale and What to Watch Out For

In today’s connected world, having reliable internet access while on the move is essential—especially for digital nomads, gamers, and tech enthusiasts like myself. One of the easiest ways to stay connected is by using your cellular service as a Wi-Fi connection, either through a mobile hotspot, SIM-enabled routers, or directly on your devices like tablets or laptops. However, as I recently found out, not all service providers are created equal, and it's important to be careful when choosing the right one for your needs.

The Importance of Cellular Wi-Fi for Digital Nomads

For someone who’s constantly on the go, using cellular service for Wi-Fi is a game-changer. It allows me to stay connected in places where traditional Wi-Fi is either too expensive, unavailable, or unreliable. With the right service plan, I can connect multiple devices—like my phone, iPad, and laptop—all while traveling, whether on the road, at a campsite, or in a remote location.

That’s why I initially chose Visible, a service provider that offered truly unlimited data at a competitive price. Their unlimited plan was exactly what I needed to stay connected to the internet without worrying about data caps or throttling. It allowed me to game, work, and stream wherever I was with no interruptions. Everything was great until recently when things suddenly took a turn.

My Experience with Visible: An Unexpected Disruption

Just the other day, I woke up to find that my iPad had lost its cellular connection. After a bit of troubleshooting, I realized this wasn’t just a temporary network issue—it was something more serious. I reached out to Visible’s customer service, hoping for a quick fix. However, I was shocked by what they told me: Visible had made the decision to only support Android and iOS phones, and no longer offered service for other devices like tablets, laptops, or Wi-Fi routers that use SIM cards.

This was incredibly frustrating, as I relied on my iPad’s cellular connection for on-the-go work and entertainment. Visible’s unlimited data had been perfect for my needs, and this sudden change left me without service and scrambling for a new solution. As someone who depends on staying connected no matter where I am, this was a significant inconvenience.

The Impact on Users with SIM-Enabled Routers and Tablets

The change in Visible’s service plan doesn’t just affect iPads or other tablets—it’s also an important consideration for anyone using Wi-Fi routers that can make use of SIM cards for cellular connections. These devices are popular for people who want to share a cellular data connection across multiple devices in mobile setups, like van life, RVs, or remote workspaces.

The problem is that this shift by Visible could signal a larger trend among cellular providers. There’s a concern that companies may begin limiting support for devices that tend to consume more data over longer periods, such as tablets, routers, and laptops. These devices often use higher amounts of bandwidth—sometimes not in bursts but over sustained periods—and some carriers may see this as an opportunity to create new service tiers or charge more for truly unlimited data plans.

Visible’s move seems to hint at this. By cutting off tablet and router users, they could be preparing to introduce new data plans that may be less generous, less unlimited, or simply more expensive. This is something to watch out for, especially if you’re someone who uses SIM-enabled routers or tablets for your internet connection on the go.

What to Watch Out For: Research Your Provider

This experience has taught me a few important lessons, especially for those of us who rely on cellular service as a primary internet source while traveling:

Read the Fine Print: Not all “unlimited” plans are created equal. Some providers may have fine print that excludes certain devices or caps data after a certain usage threshold. Before committing to a plan, make sure your devices are supported and that there are no hidden limitations.
Check Device Compatibility: Make sure that your service provider supports the type of devices you intend to use, whether it’s a tablet, SIM-enabled router, or laptop. Not all providers will continue to support non-phone devices, and sudden policy changes like the one Visible made can leave you scrambling for alternatives.
Consider Your Data Needs: If you use a lot of data, particularly for tasks like gaming, streaming, or work that requires large file uploads, make sure your provider can handle the bandwidth. Even some "unlimited" plans may throttle speeds after heavy use.
Stay Informed About Service Changes: Unfortunately, service providers can change their policies at any time. Keep an eye on any notifications or updates from your provider to avoid being caught off guard by changes that could affect your service.

Final Thoughts: Be Careful and Do Your Research

While I’m disappointed with Visible’s recent decision, it’s a reminder that we need to be vigilant about the service providers we choose. Cellular internet is an incredible tool for staying connected on the go, but it’s important to do your homework and make sure your provider supports the devices you plan to use. More importantly, watch out for potential trends where providers may restrict service or increase costs for devices that consume more data.

As I search for a new solution, I’ll be looking for a provider that truly supports my mobile lifestyle without unexpected limitations. If you’re in the same boat, be sure to research your options carefully, ask the right questions, and choose a provider that will give you the flexibility and reliability you need to stay connected.