Telstra working on iPhone tethering

Telstra has revealed it is considering plans to allow customers to tether their Apple iPhones.

While some other local carriers such as Optus and Vodafone have allowed users to access the internet using their iPhones since the 3GS launch (Optus costing $10 per month), Telstra has not allowed customers to use the feature.

However, Telstra CEO David Thodey stated on the telco's Exchange site today: "We are listening to our customers on this issue and, while I can't provide any specific dates, we are working with Apple to enable tethering on the iPhone. I will keep everyone informed about our progress".

Some on the Telstra Exchange site have their doubts about Telstra's follow-through on tethering, with commenter James stating: "I've already gone with a different provider for my latest fibre install by way of protest ... can't be working too hard — this feature has been out since June 26 or so. It will probably be time to replace my handset with an Android by the time this is fixed. I just hope the Dec 3 rumour is on the money."

Telstra's hesitation on adopting tethering has caused some frustration with customers, and it is currently unknown whether Telstra will charge its customers extra to use iPhones as a modem for their computers.

A Telstra spokesperson confirmed the comment was Thodey's and not an impersonator, but declined to comment further on the issue.