ClockworkMod Tether Alpha brings tethering to non-rooted Android phones, HTC EVO included
There are many options out there for Android users whowant to tether their phones to a computer without 1) paying a carrier extra cash every month or 2) paying for a tethering app. But there is one caveat: root is usually required.
Every EVO device that we cover at G&E can (and in my opinion should) be rooted. However, some users do not want to void their warranties just to "steal" a little internet from their phone.
Fortunately, ClockworkMod (aka Koushik Dutta) has been working on a solution. Dutta is the genius behind the root lover's ROM Manager and also the very handy DeskSMS. With a track record like this, you knew his next project would be brillant.
And ClockworkMod Tether is just that. Currently in its second alpha release, it allows all Android phones (not just EVOs) to share their internet connection with a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer.
To install this application, you have to "install a virtual network adapter on your computer" that allows non-rooted users to take advantage of this app.
Windows: Download | Mac: Download | Linux: Download
After installing the app, make sure you have the drivers necessary to run the application.
Drivers: Download page
Of course, you are going to need ClockworkMod Tether. Download and use any file manager to install it.
ClockworkMod Tether .apk: Download
The app doesn't quite look pretty yet, but Dutta says he is well aware of this and plans to polish it up before its official release.
In the meantime, he needs feedback and is looking for help in the following two categories:
- Did you have problems installing it or getting it working? If so, which operating system?
- How is your download speed once everything is set up?
For me, I had no trouble getting the application installed. My speed results are shown below.
It's not the fastest I've seen from a tethering app, sure, but I think we can all admit that we are looking forward to seeing the progress of ClockworkMod Tether.
Be sure to follow Dutta on Google+ to stay up to date.
[BGR]
