The configuration of a portable Wi-Fi access point on a mobile device running the Android operating system enables the sharing of its cellular data connection with other devices. This process transforms the Android device into a miniature wireless router, allowing laptops, tablets, and other smartphones to access the internet through its mobile data plan.
Establishing a mobile hotspot offers significant utility in situations where conventional Wi-Fi networks are unavailable or unreliable. It provides connectivity on the move, facilitates collaborative work in remote locations, and can serve as a backup internet solution during outages. Historically, this functionality has evolved from tethering via USB or Bluetooth to the more convenient and versatile Wi-Fi hotspot capability, significantly improving mobile productivity.