The iPhone’s hotspot functionality is a critical part of connectivity for most business travelers. But what does the iPhone Maximize Compatibility toggle do in the modern generations of the iOS Hotspot?
What is iPhone compatibility mode for iPhone hotspot?
“Maximize compatibility” on the iPhone’s hotspot menu moves the default 5GHz WiFi signal to an older 2.4GHz signal. This is designed to allow older devices to utilize the iPhones hotspot.
Why does the iPhone hotspot menu have maximize compatibility mode?
The “maximize compatibility” mode on the iPhone is important to allow older or less capable devices to utilize the hotspot WiFi. This means that more devices can use hotspot internet access.
When compatibility is disabled, the iPhone hotspot utilizes a 5ghz signal (which is faster) but when it is enabled, the phone steps down to 2.4GHz. This can be important for connecting to some devices (like the reMarkable 2’s Connect function).
What are limitations of compatibility mode on the iPhone hotspot?
The main differences between 5GHz and 2.4GHz WiFi frequencies are:
1. Speed: 5GHz WiFi provides faster data rates than 2.4GHz. This is because the 5GHz band has more available channels and less interference, allowing for faster data transfer.
2. Range: 2.4GHz has better range compared to 5GHz WiFi. The lower frequency of 2.4GHz allows it to penetrate solid objects (walls, furniture) more effectively than the higher frequency of 5GHz. This difference makes 2.4GHz better suited for larger spaces or areas with obstacles.
3. Interference: 2.4GHz is more susceptible to interference from other devices like microwave ovens, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices because it is a more crowded and tighter frequency band. 5GHz, with its wider range of available channels, is often less crowded and experiences less interference.
What devices need to use compatibility mode to connect to iPhone?
- IOT (internet of things) devices
- Older printers (with WiFi connectivity)
- remarkable 2 digital tablet
- Smart home devices (like older cameras or thermostats)
- Older smart phones and tablets (like iPhone X)
How to engage iPhone hotspot maximize compatibility?
On your iPhone (iPhone 12 or later), navigate to Settings >> Personal Hotspot >> Maximize Compatibility
From menu, there’s a toggle to turn compatibility mode on and off.
Case study for when to use the iPhone Maximize Compatibility mode with remarkable tablet?
While traveling for business, I needed to sync my remarkable 2 tablet with the connect service so that I could send a marked up PPT slide. I also had an PDF on my reMarkable Connect that I wanted to read on flight (#ereader). Unfortunately, I was in the process of boarding a flight and the airport WiFi didn’t want to connect.
So I grabbed my iPhone while toggling mute/unmute on a call) and activated my hotspot. To get the remarkable to connect, I activated Maximize Compatibility mode (moving the signal from 5GHz to 2.4GHz). Once my files transferred (and converted a handwritten note to text), I toggled compatibility mode off and then deactivated my hotspot.
