Tethering is one of the functionality gaps in most Windows Phone 7 devices, and so this shows that Nokia has identified another way in which to differentiate its devices. While tethering is not favoured by most mobile carriers and is probably not at the top of the list of consumers' priorities, it is something that is sorely missed when its not there. For anyone who works on the move and needs Internet access for their laptop, having a smartphone that can share its mobile data connection can be mission critical, especially in places that have poor, or no, WiFi access.
What wasn't confirmed in the FAQ was whether the tethering method would be via USB cable or WiFi hotspot. While WiFi hotspot is convenient, it's also a massive power drain. Therefore, we hope that a cabled option is available to conserve the Lumia's battery life.
Q: When will the tethering update for the Lumia devices be pushed out?
A: It will be in coming soon for 800 and 710 via Zune update, for 610 and 900 it will be available at launch.
Here are some other tidbits of information about the Lumia 900:
Q: From a design standpoint, I’ve found that not using the cover can lead to scratches on the chrome element around the camera on the Lumia 800, has that been taken into account for the 900?
A: It’s the same design on the 900 as on the 800.
Q: Is the camera on the Lumia 900 better than that on the Lumia 800?
A: The Lumia 900 incorporates camera optimisation for focus and colour balance.
Q: Does the 900 have the same audio hardware as the 800 or has it been improved? I also find the speaker volume low on the 800, is it better on the 900?
A: It’s the same speaker module on the Lumia 900 as the 800 but based on feedback from the market we have improved the audio tunings.
Q: Are the improvements to the audio tunings on the Lumia 900 to do with hardware or software?
A: It’s a combination of both
[Via The Mobile Fanatics]