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MyWi

MyWi is a pioneering application for jailbroken iPhones and iPads that transforms your device into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing multiple devices to share your cellular data connection over Wi-Fi or USB. It provides a convenient solution for internet access on the go, especially before carrier-supported hotspot features were common. Developed by Intelliborn

License: Commercial
Available for:
iPhone iPad

About MyWi

MyWi stands out as a significant application in the history of iOS jailbreaking, providing essential tethering capabilities long before they were standard features offered by mobile carriers. This application empowers users to share their device's internet connection with other Wi-Fi enabled devices such as laptops, tablets, and even other smartphones. By leveraging the unique access provided by a jailbroken environment, MyWi offers a robust and flexible method for creating a personal Wi-Fi hotspot.

The core functionality revolves around creating a secure wireless network using your iPhone or iPad's cellular data. Users can configure network names (SSID) and passwords, ensuring only authorized devices connect. Beyond Wi-Fi sharing, MyWi also supports USB tethering, providing a direct and often more stable connection for a single computer. This is particularly useful in environments where wireless interference might be an issue or for charging your device while tethering.

MyWi is designed with usability in mind, featuring a straightforward interface for activating and managing the hotspot. It includes useful tools such as a real-time display of connected devices and data usage statistics, allowing users to monitor their data consumption. For quick access, the application supports configurable hotkeys or Activator gestures, enabling users to toggle the hotspot function without navigating through menus.

A key advantage of MyWi in its prime was the ability to bypass restrictive carrier tethering plans, offering internet access on other devices at no extra cost beyond the cellular data plan itself. While carrier offerings have evolved, MyWi still provides unique flexibility and control, especially for users who prefer the customization and capabilities offered by a jailbroken device.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Enables Wi-Fi and USB tethering on jailbroken devices.
  • Allows sharing of cellular data with multiple devices.
  • Provides control over network name and security.
  • Includes data usage monitoring and connected device lists.
  • Supports quick toggling via hotkeys/gestures.

Cons

  • Requires a jailbroken iOS device, which carries risks.
  • Compatibility is tied to specific iOS versions and jailbreak availability.
  • May consume significant battery life on the host device.
  • Can potentially lead to exceeding data plan limits if not monitored.
  • Functionality has been partially superseded by native iOS features.

What Makes MyWi Stand Out

Early & Flexible Hotspot Solution

Offered reliable hotspot capabilities on iOS devices before it was widely supported by carriers or built into the operating system.

Bypass Carrier Restrictions

Historically allowed users to utilize tethering features without subscribing to expensive, carrier-specific tethering plans.

USB and WiFi Options

Provides both wireless hotspot and wired USB tethering options, offering flexibility based on user needs and circumstances.

What can MyWi do?

Jailbreak Required

The installation and use of Cydia necessitate a jailbroken iOS device.

Wifi Signal Measurement

Measures and displays the strength of detected Wi-Fi signals.

Wifi Sharing

Create a functional WiFi network from your computer for other devices to connect to.

Hot Keys

Configurable keyboard shortcuts for executing commands or actions quickly.

Share Internet Connection

Easily share your computer's internet connection (wired, wireless, or modem) with other devices.

Usb Tether

Share your phone's internet connection with a computer directly via a USB cable for a stable and fas...

Review

MyWi Review: A Look Back at a Jailbreak Staple

MyWi emerged during a time when mobile tethering was a premium service, often locked behind additional fees by cellular carriers. For users with jailbroken iPhones and iPads, MyWi presented a powerful and often more affordable alternative to share their device's internet connection. This review examines the application's functionality, usability, and overall impact within the jailbreak community.

The primary function of MyWi is straightforward: to enable the sharing of an iOS device's cellular data connection. While the official description is concise, the application's capabilities extend to creating a personal Wi-Fi hotspot capable of hosting multiple connected devices simultaneously. This allows users to bring connectivity to laptops, tablets, e-readers, and other smartphones without needing a separate internet source or a carrier's specific tethering plan. The setup process is generally intuitive within the context of a jailbroken environment, requiring users to navigate the MyWi interface to configure network settings such as the SSID (network name) and a WPA2 password for security.

Beyond the core Wi-Fi hotspot functionality, MyWi also supports USB tethering. This method provides a direct, wired connection to a single computer, which can be advantageous in situations where Wi-Fi signals might be weak or prone to interference. USB tethering can also offer a more stable connection and simultaneously charge the connected iOS device, adding a layer of convenience.

One of MyWi's notable features is the inclusion of real-time statistics. Users can monitor which devices are connected to their hotspot and view data usage information. This is a valuable tool for keeping track of data consumption, especially for users with capped data plans. The application also integrates with Activator, a popular jailbreak tweak, allowing users to assign gestures or hotkeys to quickly toggle the MyWi hotspot on or off without needing to open the application itself, enhancing accessibility and speed.

The requirement of a jailbroken device is a significant point. MyWi operates at a system level not accessible to standard App Store applications, which was crucial for its functionality in bypassing carrier restrictions. However, this also means that MyWi's availability and compatibility are tied to the specific iOS version and the availability of a stable jailbreak for that version. Users should be aware that jailbreaking comes with its own set of considerations, including potential security risks and the voiding of warranties.

In conclusion, MyWi was a groundbreaking application for its time, offering essential tethering capabilities to users willing to jailbreak their devices. It provided a level of freedom and control over internet sharing that was largely unavailable through official channels. While built-in hotspot features are now standard on most smartphones, MyWi's historical significance and continued utility for users in the jailbreak community remain notable. Its combination of Wi-Fi and USB tethering, coupled with monitoring features and quick-access options, made it a valuable tool for portable internet access.

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