By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man –Follow me on X.
TV Answer Man, I’m tired of paying so much for Internet. Do you know if you can use a mobile Hotspot with a data plan on a Smart TV to stream? — Tim, Corsicana, Texas.
Tim, you need an Internet connection to stream Netflix, Hulu or any other streaming service on a Smart TV, or some other device that offers streaming services, such as a Blu-ray player or a streaming device such as Roku or Amazon Fire TV.
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Many mobile phones and tablets can run on 5G, LTE or other Internet plans — and, yes, you could create a Hotspot from your mobile device to create a wireless Internet network in your home. For instance, your spouse and kids could access your Hotspot to surf the Net on your Smart TV. (Consult the settings of your mobile to learn how to create a Hotspot.)
Most Hotspots have data limits, and if you go over the data limit, you could wind up paying a small fortune in overage charges. But the Hotspot with an unlimited data plan could be a great alternative to buying an expensive Internet service from a cable or telco company.
But before you go and set one up using an unlimited data plan, here are a few cautions:
1. Yes, you can stream Netflix, or your other favorite streaming services, without fear of overages. But some unlimited plans come with a feature that will reduce the resolution of the picture once you start using a large amount of data. If you care about picture quality, this could be a real annoyance.
2. Some Hotspots on mobile devices are not compatible with Smart TVs. The TV may detect the Hotspot connection, but you may not be able to actually connect to it to stream. Before buying a long-term Hotspot plan, make sure your connected TV will be able to pick up the signal. I would suggest trying to get a free trial from your mobile service, or just buying the first month of service to test it out.
So, bottom line, the Hotspot with an unlimited plan removes the worry of excessive monthly charges — and eliminates the need for an expensive Internet plan from your local cable or telco company. But there’s no guarantee it will work to your satisfaction, or at all. Again, before buying a long-term plan, give the Hotspot a spin in your home for a few days.
Tim, hope that helps. Happy viewing and stay safe!
Have a question about new TV technologies? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com Please include your first name and hometown in your message.
The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered the TV technology scene for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch television. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.
