A new feature has been discovered in iOS 6 beta 4 called ‘WiFi Plus Cellular’, and according to the guys over at Apple Insider it is designed to let you use your cellular connections when your WiFi starts to slow down.
When your WiFi connection starts to slow down or become congested, your iOS device will automatically switch over to your cellular connection. This feature is apparently designed to allow for seamless Facetime and other VoIP video services, ensuring that your video calls and other internet-dependent activities are not interrupted by poor WiFi performance.
How WiFi Plus Cellular Works
The ‘WiFi Plus Cellular’ feature works by continuously monitoring the quality of your WiFi connection. When it detects that the WiFi signal is weakening or becoming too slow, it automatically switches to the cellular network to maintain a stable and fast internet connection. This is particularly useful in environments where WiFi networks are prone to congestion, such as crowded public places, large events, or even at home when multiple devices are connected to the same network.
For example, imagine you are on a Facetime call with a friend while at a busy coffee shop. As more people connect to the coffee shop’s WiFi, the network becomes congested, causing your video call to lag or drop. With ‘WiFi Plus Cellular’, your iOS device will seamlessly switch to your cellular data, ensuring that your call continues without interruption.
Benefits and Considerations
The primary benefit of ‘WiFi Plus Cellular’ is the enhanced reliability and continuity of internet-dependent services. This is especially important for applications that require a stable connection, such as video calls, online gaming, and streaming services. By automatically switching to cellular data when WiFi is insufficient, users can enjoy a more consistent and reliable experience.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Using cellular data can quickly consume your data allowance, especially if you are on a limited data plan. It’s important to monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected charges. Additionally, the quality of the cellular connection can vary depending on your location and network provider, so the feature may not always provide a perfect solution.
The feature is expected to launch with iOS 6 later this year, which we are expecting to get some sort of official announcement about next month, with the launch of the iPhone 5. This new addition to iOS 6 highlights Apple’s commitment to improving user experience by addressing common connectivity issues.
Source Gadget Venue
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